Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

People tend to assume that Albedo doesn't have social media.

Albedo doesn't blame them, because he guesses he doesn't seem like the type. He's the type to be kind through courtesy but hold all people at a metaphorical arm's length. It's not that he doesn't like people. In fact, he finds them pretty interesting, with all the different things they get up to. He always finds himself bemused by the different ways humans can act, like his longtime eccentric friend Kaeya as opposed to the more refined Jean.

Nevertheless, he's more than alright with leaving the study of humans to anthropologists, because they're too loud for his taste and require certain efforts that tire him out too quickly. Though it does intrigue him that one hour of talking to someone can exhaust him so much more than an entire day of painting does.

So that's why among all the people Albedo meets during his days, whether in classes or through mutual friends or somehow something else, they don't ask Albedo for his socials. Albedo doesn't really feel the need to offer, either. He is perfectly happy with his sheltered Instagram account, where his follower count is almost exclusively strangers so he feels no fear posting anything from a line sketch to an elaborate full painting.

It kind of feels like...a little haven. Albedo can freely post whatever he likes and feel no need for validation, but if he does ever read through the comments, it evokes the warmest of feelings in his chest. He probably won't stop smiling for a whole ten minutes.

It's been getting pretty big this past year, actually. People seem to like what he's putting out and Albedo still gets a little alarmed when likes pour through seconds after he posts a picture.

A popular singer once found one of his posts of a drawing centred around a Waterparks CD, and all he needed to comment was a mere 'I love that band!!! this is so good!!!' for the artist's fanbase to FLOOD into Albedo's follower count.

A damn ramen brand reached out to him in a language he didn't understand about a sponsor because of a simple watercolour painting of his dinner (which did happen to be ramen, but still).

A Chinese model commented on a post asking if he 'did commissions', which Albedo didn't back then. It only took Albedo replying with a blunt 'I don't draw people very often so I might not be the best option but I would draw you for free' for him to suddenly be involved in a dating scandal that actually made his account even more popular than before. Albedo was very thankful after that day that he doesn't attach his name or anything personal to this account other than his pronouns.

Needless to say, a few of these kinds of encounters have happened since the opening of this banal account, and Albedo finds it rather amusing. Especially when he usually only ever knows that any of it is happening because Kaeya (who, unfortunately, knows the existence of the account and comments embarrassing things usually while drunk like 'WOOHOOOO GO ALBESTIE FUCK SHIT UP W THOSE MAGIC PAINTY FINGERS OF URS') will shoot him texts about it in all-caps.

Having this account brings a sweet amount of colour into Albedo's life. It's quite nice, on days when he's feeling low on inspiration to scroll through physical comments from physical people telling him real things they like about his work. It's quite nice, to feel a little anonymous somewhere when everyone in his university seems to know who he is for various reasons. Jean says that's because Albedo is always helping out those who need it, while Kaeya says it's because the whole student body started collectively thirsting over Albedo once he became a TA for Chemistry classes.

Albedo sincerely hopes Jean is the one who is right.

"Mr Albedo!" a voice calls, and Albedo looks up from his phone to see Sucrose rushing over to him. Albedo smiles as he rests his phone down on the table.

"Just Albedo is fine, Sucrose," Albedo says kindly for what feels like the hundredth time. Sucrose is barely two years younger than him and he might teach one of her classes but he thinks of them as having a more friendly relationship. They've spent many quiet hours in each other's company in the library or the laboratory. "What can I do for you?"

"Oh- oh, no, you don't need to do anything!" Sucrose says quickly, frazzled from her run as she pushes her glasses up her nose. Albedo curiously notes the twinkle in her eyes, and awaits an explanation. Something that excites Sucrose will no doubt give Albedo a similar feeling. "It's just that, I know you don't have social media..."

Sucrose trails off confusedly when Albedo smiles amusedly without thinking, so Albedo coughs behind his hand and waves at her to continue. She nods. "So I wanted to tell you about this in person, because you have to know!"

"Oh? What is it, Sucrose?"

"The mural that you painted for the Department of Science! Professor Zhongli posted it on his Instagram and really amazing scientists are replying saying how amazing it is!" Sucrose says excitedly, thrusting her phone almost into Albedo's face. Albedo blinks at the close proximity, then carefully takes the phone when Sucrose gestures that he can. For a moment, he just looks over the photo fondly. Painting this mural was one of his favourite projects yet. Art is technically only a hobby to him, but it means more than he can put into words, and when over a phone call during the holidays Professor Zhongli sighed to him about how the Science block looked rather bare, he'd piped up without thinking.

"I think I would like to change that."

Albedo is a pretty spontaneous person. He easily gains new interests and throws himself into them, delighting in the new skills and information this brings him. Then if he sets his mind on something to do with a new interest, he won't stop until he's done. And that day, he spontaneously decided to spend a good few weeks of his free time painting a full mural on the bare wall outside the building to be a front page for all the amazing knowledge that lay inside.  

He had a surprising amount of fun during this time. He went to great lengths when looking for inspiration, partly through books and his own experiences but also making sure to talk to many other students in the Science department because he wanted the paintings to represent them. His nose stung with the smell of paint, his mind swum with the thought of dancing scientific equipment and colourful bursts of formulas, and the cheerful moral support that people in the department would give him while walking past made him a lot fonder of humans than he ever has been.

He didn't wait around to see anyone's reactions once he had finished. But sometimes, he catches people looking at the mural in awe or taking pictures in front of it, and his heart squeezes. He wishes he could have taken a picture for his art account, but he didn't want to give away any semblance of where he studied.

But it seems like Professor Zhongli had done it for him, a very beautifully taken photo that makes Albedo feel so seen. And the caption makes his heart feel like it's growing fuzz, so much so that he has to rest a hand on his chest.

I wish for everyone to see this amazing piece, created by a most wonderful graduate student by the name of Albedo! Who knew art and science could coincide in such a gorgeous way? Let's cheer Albedo on who has begun embarking on his journey to get his PhD - I believe in him wholeheartedly and I feel very honoured to be his chosen supervisor!

"Professor Zhongli is a national treasure," Albedo says softly, momentarily forgetting that Zhongli isn't actually from Mondstadt, and Sucrose backs him up with a sprite nod.

And Sucrose is true to her word. Scientists and researchers that Albedo has seen and even some he looks up to are in the replies, what with all the contacts a genius scientist like Zhongli would obviously have, applauding the mural. They use words and nuances that make Albedo's chest feel tighter and tighter, until he has to take in a breath.

"Look how happy you are!" Sucrose gasps when she sees Albedo's face, sounding extremely happy herself at the fact, and Albedo slowly nods. Yes, that's what this is. He's really, really quite happy. He doesn't achieve that feeling a lot, usually in a serene sense of calm interest or calm disinterest, but right now?

His lips are itching with the urge to smile until his face breaks.

He takes a mental note of Professor Zhongli's social media handle before handing Sucrose back her phone. She takes a seat next to him as they scroll through the comments and chatter animatedly, with Albedo laughing softly whenever Sucrose stammers incessantly over her words at each inspiring scientist they see acknowledging the post.

All in all, the next few hours fly by happily and quickly, and soon Albedo finds himself at his apartment by the time night falls. He tries to tie his hair back into a ponytail after he slips into something more comfortable, hair tie in his mouth as he peers at his laptop on his desk. It's on Professor Zhongli's social media, since he'd managed to remember to check out the account.

Hesitantly he clicks the follow button, hoping that the Professor wouldn't notice. But even if he did, Albedo wouldn't really mind.

He looks at a few of the man's earlier pictures too. He smiles because they're all very wholesome, of landscapes or spending time with friends or the occasional puppy, which is very Professor Zhongli. But then his eye catches something that has him dropping his hair tie with a start.

Gold.

He fumbles gracelessly to pick up his hair tie and drag his hair into the quickest of ponytails before he scoots forward, jabbing at the picture like a man possessed. It splays over his laptop screen, and he stares in wordless awe. Professor Zhongli's gloved hand is just in frame as the most ethereal of beings takes up the rest of the square photo space, eyes closed and mouth open in a bright laugh.

I have seen a god, Albedo's tired mind thinks for a moment. I'm not even thirty and I have seen divinity. This is too good of a fate for a dehydrated sleep-deprived moron who decided to take a PhD like, as aforementioned, a moron.

Albedo lets out a soft breath, taking in everything, from the effortlessly pretty mop of gold hair atop the boy's head that falls into a messy braid so long that it disappears past the bottom of the photo. He exudes such happiness, he exudes such light, such gold, to the point that Albedo forgets that it's night time because the sun is definitely in sight, right in front of his eyes.

His eyes flick down to the caption, which reads: I ran into an old friend, I am very glad he is doing so well! And it just so happens that he's enrolling into my university after the holiday, second year undergraduate! Let's all give a warm welcome to @viatoraveller !

After the holiday, huh...so that means this golden flower would be in the university by now since the year had only just started...

Albedo goes back to staring at the photo soon enough. He rests a hand on his cheek, a slight smile quirking up his lips as if he can't help it. Then he makes the very dangerous decision to click on the tagged account.

Immediately, he's hit by so much gold that he has to lean away from the screen for a moment. But he's curiously leaning back in soon enough, like a moth drawn to a flame. 

Incredible. Just brilliant. This boy's photos alone are exquisite. They are definitely taken and filtered with experience, and Albedo would love to analyse them, but he's too preoccupied at the moment. Too preoccupied in long sunlight strands of hair, always seeming to be in that plait as long and thick as a rope, in bright youthful skin, in happily beautiful smiles, in...eyes. Eyes, golden eyes that shine like the stars. Eyes that make Albedo absent-mindedly grab a pen and hold it tight in his fist.

The photos are artful, but carefree. There is a recent one that matches Professor Zhongli's, with the boy smiling bright as he clinks glasses with a fond-looking Zhongli. Many of the photos include the boy outside, a golden beaming flower among a new landscape each time. Seemingly a traveller, true to the username. There are also a number that include another golden character, giving off a similar vibe to Albedo's new paramour as they share smiles or playful jabs or food in the pictures.

A twin, Albedo deduces with not much digging needed. Also fascinating...

See, Albedo is still very spontaneous, and tends to quickly make up his mind on something where he can't rest until he's finished. If he stepped back a little, maybe he would have checked the boy's bio. Maybe found out his name. But he is an artistic fiend, brain already whirring, so he clicks to position a screenshot of the first photo of the golden flower he gets his hands on for reference then almost falls out of his seat trying to rush over to his sketchbook and coloured inks, thanking the stars that he doesn't use his gold one very often.

His hands work on autopilot. It's not rare for that to happen, when he finds something he truly wants to draw. But he's never quite been this eager, this...urgent. His fingers are simply itching, itching to see if he can capture all this luminescent gold onto paper using only his unworthy hands and two ink pens. And he's going to try his best.

He has no clue how many hours pass by as he sketches. His imagination runs wild, making the pose he's drawing differ significantly from the hastily chosen reference material, but it's close enough - it's still bright, it's still loud, still laughing. An image of the golden flower tilting his head up to the sun, a sweet beam on his face as his braid of woven sunlight swishes in the air behind his back.

Albedo pauses, before sketching a golden sunflower behind his ear. It spirals, until lithe buttercups thread themselves through the long plait, and the boy's expression turns into one of surprised delight as a golden butterfly perches on his nose...

Oh gods.

Albedo has literally just drawn this very real and existing man into some sort of Disney prince.

This might be the most inanely embarrassing thing he has ever done.

Finally taking a chance for a breather, Albedo thunks his head against his sketchbook in shame. He winces as the cramp in his hand from drawing so hard for so long finally reaches him, and he miserably lifts his head to look at his drawing. He expects to feel ashamed, to want to throw it away.

Yet, all it does is make him feel enamoured all over again. His chest feels so tight, watching the golden flower laughing in the sun as even more flowers decorate him.

Albedo smiles to himself. Well. Hopefully, this can end now. He'd drawn this beautiful man to satisfy an itch and now it's over. A wonderful way to have spent his night, he thinks.

Yawning, he trundles over to his small printer and scans the drawing. It materialises on his laptop soon, slightly dulled on the screen but no matter. He goes back to the golden flower's account, and feels wholly satisfied when he sees the boy has a whole 10k followers. Extremely deserved. In fact, more than a billion people should be able to follow this account and see that face every day simply for the incredible experience, but Albedo can begrudgingly settle for 10,000.

It's definitely not as many followers as Albedo has, but he's had random celebrity influence so it doesn't really count. He deduces that with 10k, the golden flower probably won't notice his little attempt at...fanart? Albedo sincerely feels like he can't be the first to do this kind of thing for the boy, not with looks like those.

He sets up a post, and taps out a short caption. But he feels stuck on his explanation for this piece of work. What words should he use to describe this boy?

"'You're very...fascinating'?" Albedo tries, before frowning. No, that doesn't seem right. He is indeed extremely fascinating, but Albedo's not sure if it's normal to call a human fascinating. How about...luminescent? Bewitching? Beguiling? Something like that, but...

He sighs to himself, feeling the urge to sleep weigh heavy on his mind so he just types the first thing he can think of before closing the laptop and getting up out of his seat, stretching out after so long sitting down. Then he heads off to the bathroom to get ready for a good night's sleep, smiling serenely at the thought of happy gold filling his dreams.

That would be nice.

- hello @viatoraveller. I believe you may not see this, and that is fine, but if you do then I hope you like it. You are so very beautiful. And so very gold.

Chapter Text

Albedo doesn't have much going on for the next day. He has a casual meeting with Professor Zhongli, then he hopes to spend most of his afternoon in the laboratory to conduct a few experiments.

So he really does not expect the onslaught of texts that he receives the next morning that scream: 'YOU ARE SO VERY BEAUTIFUL'?????? ALBEDO WHO THE FUCK R U WHAT DID U DO W MY FREN'

It takes Albedo an incredibly long time to know what exactly is going on. He just blinks slowly at the texts, until he realises that he is really too sleep-addled for this so he just clicks the little phone icon in the corner of the screen. Kaeya picks up on barely the first ring.

"DUDE," is the first thing Kaeya yells at him, though it's not an angry yell which Albedo feels glad about. Kaeya just sounds extremely confused, and a little...hurt? "Albedo, oh my GODS. Since when and how the fuck have you been seducing the new kid. I met him like last week and we hit it off and all but are you telling me you know him?!"

"I might. Who are we talking about?" Albedo asks calmly, closing his eyes once more, and Kaeya lets out the loudest of groans.

"You know what? Knowing you, you just saw a picture of him and went 'wow pretty' and just drew him. Am I right?"

Albedo is a bit alarmed by how a description that crude is actually quite accurate. "Hey, I do not think...'wow pretty' ever, especially not in regards to a muse."

"Did you just- DID YOU JUST CALL HIM- oh my goodness. You're a natural flirt and you're unaware of it. This is the worst thing that has ever happened to me," Kaeya says, sounding like the world is going to end before he gets to put his eyeliner on and Albedo smiles to himself at the dramatics. "I can't believe. I cannot believe I never knew about this until now. WHY DID YOU WAIT THIS LONG TO GET YOUR HEART STOLEN, YOU MONSTER."

"I really don't know what you're talking about, Kaeya," Albedo chuckles, though he does have a bit of an inkling by now. "This is about my post last night? Ah, it was late, so the caption might not have been worded the best. But it was my duty to let the boy know what I thought of his appearance."

"Your duty. Are you hearing yourself?"

"I just needed to give a semblance of a reason for why I suddenly drew him, and that reason really just happened to be that he was beautiful. Is beautiful," Albedo reiterates softly, feeling a little faraway when he remembers the gold haze of a pretty boy with pretty hair and a pretty smile. Transcendent. "That makes sense, right?"

"...Geez, Albedo. I mean, I guess," Kaeya huffs, at least sounding a bit more subdued now. "Gods, I have literally never heard you talk about a person like this. Everyone knows Aether is pretty as hell but this is next level."

Aether, Albedo thinks wistfully. Fittingly ethereal.

"How do you know him, Kaeya?"

"Dude's popping up everywhere. Super sociable, seems to already know a handful of people scattered across the years and departments, and he's signed up for literally everything. He's either super bored, super kind, or super stupid. After meeting him, I think it's all three."

"I am yet to see him," Albedo says, trying not to sound too disappointed about it, and Kaeya snorts, "Yeah 'cause you never notice anything about your surroundings unless you're specifically looking."

That's true. Albedo tends to be lost in his thoughts when commuting around university and town, not really noticing people unless he chooses to or if they call out to him. But he likes to think that he wouldn't have possibly been able to miss the golden flower...

"Alright, I gotta go but we're talking more about this! This is a side of you I wanna know about," Kaeya insists, and Albedo nods. This is also a side of himself that Albedo would like to explore, though he wouldn't mind if he doesn't get to, because things like this that involve people are always a bit of a hassle.

After a quick exchange of goodbyes, Albedo sits up and rubs his eyes as he scrolls through his phone. He opens Instagram, and smiles at the large number that pops up at the little heart at the bottom of his screen. He'd be glad if people liked the drawing. He also sees that he has quite a few message requests too, so he clicks into them.

A few are general commission requests, but two catch his eye, waking him up immensely. He is drawn to the golden profile pictures, effortlessly matching in the way twins always do. Bright smiles fill the small circles, one with wheat-gold hair, one with purely aureate. Breathing going shaky from the thought of conversing with the golden flower, he hastily clicks on the wheat-gold.

And blinks.

- HELLO? EXCUSE ME WHO ARE YOU?? YOU KNOW MY BROTHER HAS BEEN FREAKING OUT FOR THE LAST FEW HOURS BC SOME RANDOM FAMOUS ARTIST DUDE DREW HIM WTF???

That...was definitely not what Albedo had expected.

- he's not some CELEBRITY YK YOU CANT JUST...DRAW HIM!! THEN POST HIM! WITHOUT HIS PERMISSION!!

Oh dear. Is that true? Albedo sighs, preparing himself to profusely apologise.

- jesus dude aethers just overwhelmed by all the attention this is getting him. imagine your fucking...500k flwr count descending onto his acc!! like lil vultures!! dudes phone is blowing up!!

I am truly so sorry, I had not thought of the repercussions at the time. Please forgive me. I will talk to Aether, and hope that he forgives me also. -

- oh man you actually replied...
- yeah uh ok cool. make sure to do that. but i mean he's not...mad? i'm a little mad though but that's jus cause i'm protective

Of course. You do not need to explain yourself, this is a mistake on my part. -

- you are...surprisingly less confrontational than i thought youd be
- and. you know. the drawing is beautiful, i'm not saying it's not...me and aether did just stare at it in awe for a little while

Albedo’s heart flutters. That makes him feel very glad, and he half wants to kick his legs like a giddy teenager to think of the muse admiring his drawing.

I'm very happy to hear that. I shall message Aether now. -

- oh yeah do you know him or sth? using his name so casually like that
- aether says that he swears he doesn't know you but you also don't have any indicator of who you are or anyth on your acc

Ah. Sorry, I didn't mean to be so casual. No, I do not personally know him. -
But I feel as if...I might meet him soon. -

- WHAT WTF

I simply mean that we go to the same university, which I discovered accidentally! -

- OH. omg you weirdo you could've jus said that first instead of sounding all OMINOUS
- ok go go talk to him he's still in like a weird Daze over all this so go!

Yes, of course. -

Albedo lets out a sigh, setting his phone down for a moment. This is an incredibly taxing amount of social interaction for first thing in the morning, and he still has to see Professor Zhongli too. At least the twin, Lumine her bio says her name is, was not extremely hostile.

He also quite wants to freshen up before talking to who might be the most beautiful person he has ever seen, even just through messages, but he also wants to clear the air as soon as possible.

Mustering up all his will, he picks up his phone again and clicks into Aether's messages. His eyes widen a little when he's met with a very different set of messages to Lumine's.

- hello!!!!!!
- sorry was that...too many exclamation marks...aaahhh im really nervous!

Albedo already has to take a break, resting a hand over his face. The golden flower is already too sweet for him to handle.

- first off i just wanted to say. thank you sm for drawing me!! it was such a surprise!
- a nice one definitely a nice one!
- and gosh your art is so beautiful...i can't stop staring. i keep thinking 'is that rlly me?' you made me look so GOOD!

Because you are beautiful, Albedo thinks with a frown. I didn't make you look better than you are.

- im rlly honoured. i went through your acc and jus felt even more spellbound. you're so so talented.
- tho i noticed youve never posted a drawing of another person hahha...

Albedo flushes a little at that. He had thought that maybe his followers might think this post peculiar for that reason. Its not that Albedo doesn't ever draw people - he actually quite likes drawing Kaeya, because Kaeya is very pretty too, and has a lot of eccentricities that are nice to capture. But Albedo is not commonly interested in people enough to draw full sketches, so he does not commonly post people.

- but maybe if its ok to ask...could you give me a little bit of a heads up next time?

Albedo's heart sinks. So he has truly made Aether uncomfortable. He can't begin to explain his remorse.

- not bc i hated the drawing no the drawing was so so pretty! but ah its jus cause you're yk a big acc and it was kind of scary yk being kinda exposed to so many people and it being the first thing i saw when i woke up.....
- anyway. i don't want to nag bc i am sm more honoured than i am overwhelmed and im not upset at all! i just still can't believe you wanted to draw me and i still can't believe you DID draw me
- and the caption...
- AAAA THIS IS SO HARD im embarrassed IM NERVOUS BUT THANK YOU thank you so much for drawing me for thinking im beautiful for tagging me for letting me see sth so pretty!!!
- thank you!!!!

Albedo likes sweet things. Sugar is good for the mind and the soul. But this level of sweetness is too much for him, and he can sincerely feel himself be seconds away from passing out. Sugar rushes are a treacherous thing.

Hello. I am really so glad you liked the drawing. Of course I will give you a heads up if there is a next time. It was late at night and I wasn't quite thinking as much as I should have, I am sorry for that. I am glad you are not angry, and thank you for the kind words. -

Just like Lumine, Aether replies with record-breaking speed.

- &@&#^^÷^×#((#^ AAAAA BIG FAMOUS ARTIST REPLIED TO MEEEE

That surprises Albedo enough to make him laugh out loud.

This 'big famous artist' did draw you, you know. -

- hahha i kno!! but its still so cool!! i feel like your fan now after scrolling through your acc sm so AAAAA
- anyway i should stop being embarrassing but thank you for your reply!!

You are not embarrassing. It is endearing, and of course I would be happy if someone likes my art. -

- oh yeah ofc!! and i do i like it smsmsm!
- btw
- lumine says we go to the same uni?? is that true???

Yes, it is true. I only discovered this because you seem to be a friend of my PhD advisor's, Professor Zhongli. -

- you know zhongli omg!! awesome!!!
- and woah...PHD ADVISOR?! YOURE GETTING A PHD WOOOAAHH
- oh my GODS you must be so SMART omg no wonder your art is so good...

Ah, you are mistaken. My PhD is in Chemistry. Art is a very glorified hobby of mine. -

- WHA YOURE NOT EVEN STUDYING IT? BROOOOO

Albedo chuckles again as he gets out of bed and hunts for his hairbrush. Aether is a very expressive conversationalist, and it's nice.

- youre so COOLL what WHAT oh no now i am fanboying I AM SO SORRY THIS MUST BE AWKWARD FOR U
- anyway you must be super super busy with all your phd-ing so ill leave you be!! thank you again for the drawing!!

Of course. Thank you for being my muse. -

- muse...omg <3 you rlly kno how to make someone feel special dr mysterious artist!!!
- i hope to see u around!

So do I. Have a nice day. -

Albedo almost sets his phone down after that, but remembers at the last second to actually follow Aether first. He feels bad about not doing that earlier. He gazes a little at some of the photos again just for the sake of it, feeling so rejuvenated by the sight, and finally sees Aether's bio.

aether ☀️ he/they
21 | @universityofmondstadt | home is wherever me and my sister are together, so we love to travel!

Adorable. Albedo has no siblings, but he feels as if it can't be much more different than the way he feels towards Klee. He knows his explorer friend Alice should spend more time with her daughter, but he always secretly delights in the times when Alice goes off somewhere and leaves Klee in his care.

"The most surprising thing I've found out in the six years of knowing you," Kaeya had said one day after visiting Albedo's apartment, playing hand games with Klee, "is that you're good with kids. Crazy."

"They are sweet," Albedo replied fondly, smiling at the sight of Klee and Kaeya. Two of his favourite people. "If you respect their wishes and treat them well, their affection towards you will be boundless."

"Don't let this one mess your place up too much, though. She's just like Alice," Kaeya laughed, lifting Klee into the air and the girl yelled out in excitement. "So curious and clever, aren't you!"

Albedo misses her immensely. Even if he only just saw her two days ago.

His phone buzzes when he's done brushing his hair, and he looks down. He sees that it's from Professor Zhongli, so he checks it immediately.

- Hello, Albedo! I just wished to check in to see if we were still on for coffee at 10 .

Hello Dr Zhongli, and of course. -

- Looking forward to it!

Albedo smiles. Speaking of which, it's nearing ten now. Albedo had overslept a little because of last night's endeavours...

He finishes freshening up, then gathers clothes. Soon he's ready to face the day, and he leaves with the tiniest of springs in his steps.

Albedo feels a smile light his face the instant he walks into the café and sees Professor Zhongli wave at him from a table near the back. Honestly, his face is starting to hurt from how much his cheek muscles have been exercising this morning.

Albedo nods politely at the waitress before heading over to where Zhongli's already got up to pull out his seat for him. "Thank you, sir."

"Of course. How are things on this fine morning, Albedo?" Zhongli asks warmly once he's returned to his seat, and Albedo wonders how to answer that. There are many ways, and many words that he can think of. But he doesn't wish to bore the professor with the details so he simply says, "They have been rather delightful."

"Oh? A surprisingly lovely answer," Zhongli says with a smile, looking intrigued. "I am glad. Now order anything you like!"

Zhongli says that but the man has a habit of forgetting his own wallet. Luckily Albedo knows better now and always brings his own wallet anyway.

After ordering, Zhongli fixes him with a look so serious that it's rather scary. Albedo blinks, waiting a moment before asking, "Uh, Professor...is anything wrong?"

"On the contrary," Zhongli says with a shake of his head. "But you see, Albedo. I have an announcement."

"Oh?" Albedo perks up a little, wondering if it's a new area of research Zhongli is looking into. "What is it?"

"I," Zhongli begins, before taking a rather long pause for dramatic effect. Then he rests a hand over his chest, and finishes gravely, "am no longer a professor."

Albedo's eyes grow wide as he stares in astonishment. "...Pardon?"

Zhongli nods solemnly. "Yes. It is saddening. I have been teaching at this university for longer than I can remember, but the journey has come to an end. I brought this up a while ago with fellow teachers, yet they all stared at me in horror, so I felt very burdened. So much so that I wondered if I should perhaps fake my death instead. But then I thought that might be a little dramatic."

"Maybe a little," Albedo says hoarsely. He's still in shock. Zhongli is one of, if not the most loved professor of the University of Mondstadt. Apparently he 'came out of nowhere' years ago (people really do treat Professor Zhongli like a protagonist from an old myth), already a seasoned scientist who had won global awards, and decided to imbue the university with his wisdom. Albedo remembers being nineteen and staring in awe at the man who explained his favourite subject so fluently in his first ever university class, with a voice low and calming which spoke of difficult topics in a way that made them so effortlessly easy to understand. He was like some all-knowing wizard.

"You're really...no longer a professor?" Albedo still can't believe it, even after the question leaves his mouth.

"Ah, dear boy, don't look at me that way," Zhongli assures him with a fond smile. "I will still be working with the university to overlook research and as an advisor. I also think I might try my hand at being a guidance counsellor! But you see, I think I just need to free some more or my time up a little now."

"For what?" Albedo asks, a little bluntly because he's still very very very in shock, but now Zhongli looks surprised.

"Well, there are a few reasons, but the main reason for this timing is you, of course!"

Albedo processes. He processes that sentence for a very long time. His genius mind that has conducted a long list of taxing series of experiments over only days before can not even comprehend a sentence that sounds so simple.

So, very intelligently, he asks, "Huh?"

Zhongli's eyes twinkle amusedly at him. "You're the first person to ever ask me to be their PhD advisor, Albedo. It warmed me to my very soul, and I want to do my best by you."

First? Hold on, that can't be right. "Really?"

Zhongli nods, and now his eyes have darkened a little with something akin to sadness. Albedo wants to fight whatever would make this wonderful man sad. "I...believe that, the students find me unapproachable. I have been told before that I seem to emit a somewhat stoic or frightening vibe. I know that I am strict when it comes to deadlines and such, but in any other sense, I only wish for my students to do their very best and I would love to help them do so. But it's very rare for me to get this chance. That is why, when you asked me to be your advisor, I was so very happy."

Albedo does remember when he asked Zhongli to be his advisor, right before the summer break. Zhongli had gone stock-still, staring at him with wide eyes. Before promptly tearing up.

"Professor!" Albedo had yelped at the time, stressed as he laid a cautious hand on the professor's shoulder and Zhongli only shook his head, raising an elegant hand to cover his face.

"I apologise for my outburst. I would love to, Albedo."

Zhongli had been very clear about what having a PhD advisor would entail. Albedo just thought it would be someone who would steer him in the right direction when needed, but apparently the role is a mentor, a critic, and a friend all wrapped up into one. Zhongli thought it crucial for them to form a close bond, which is why they're doing things like having coffee which leads to Albedo always being heavily in denial that he's going on platonic café dates with one of the best scientists ever.

"I'm really glad that made you happy," Albedo says, earnestly, and Zhongli smiles at him. Then their drinks arrive, and they lose themselves in talking about the things that interest them.

"...Dr Zhongli," Albedo begins warily at one point, feeling awkward about not saying 'professor', and Zhongli looks at him in anticipation. "I heard that you know of someone by the name of Aether."

Zhongli's eyes brighten a little, which is a positive sign. "I do! What a wonderful boy."

"How did you two meet, if you don't mind my asking?"

"I bumped into him when I returned to my homeland during winter break a few years ago. He had lost his sister, so I helped him look for her, then I invited them both in for hot chocolate. We have been in loose contact ever since."

Of course the story is a sweet one. "I see."

"Why do you ask?"

Here comes the embarrassing part. Albedo fiddles with his hands, before reaching down to rummage around in his bag. He takes out his sketchbook, opens it to the certain page, and nervously rests it on the table for Zhongli to see. "Well..."

"Oh my heavens," Zhongli says quietly after a moment, eyes wide in amazement as he stares down at the drawing. "Albedo. This is gorgeous."

Albedo scratches the back of his neck shyly. "Thank-"

"You have captured Aether's essence so perfectly. He just exudes a golden aura of happiness, doesn't he?"

"Yes!" Albedo agrees immediately, nodding. "His aura is so wonderful. It feels like the aura of the stars."

Zhongli looks at Albedo curiously then, eyes slightly narrowed. He suddenly seems protective, and Albedo kind of gets shivers. "So...why did you draw Aether, Albedo? And in this kind of way? Are you two acquainted?"

Albedo winces, shaking his head. "Sadly not. But Dr Zhongli, I...I have never felt this way towards a person before. He's so beautiful that I don't know what to do with myself."

"My, what a bold choice of words. If you were any other person, I'd think you were in love," Zhongli chuckles, making Albedo flush red. "But knowing you, I'm sure you just mean that he's plaguing your mind. Does it feel like an itch you can't satisfy?"

Albedo nods sincerely. "I thought I had satisfied it with the drawing but, then I realised I might see him around, and then I talked to him, and-"

"You talked to him?" Zhongli asks, eyebrows high on his forehead, and Albedo nods again but a bit miserably this time.

"Just over messages, a tiny bit. He is very sweet, sir. Is this how people usually feel when meeting him?"

"Honestly, maybe a little," Zhongli says amusedly. "Talking to other people who know Aether, we've all fallen into the tiniest of dazes when first meeting him. He just shines so bright, so earnest and eager to be of assistance. Everyone is very fond of him, too."

"That makes sense," Albedo sighs. It feels comforting that he's not alone in this feeling, but it also feels a little heavy, knowing that Aether is so loved. It makes the chance of him acknowledging Albedo on a friendly level very small.

Not that he wants to be friends! He probably wouldn't be a good friend for someone like Aether, anyway, and Albedo can settle with that.

"Do you wish to get to know him in person, Albedo? I can put in a good word," Zhongli offers, and Albedo tries not to blush again as he says as calmly as he can, "N-No, that's quite alright. I was just...curious about him, is all."

Zhongli nods, wise eyes sparkling again as he lifts his cup to his lips. "I see."

"You're doing that thing where you're very obviously seeing right through me," Albedo deadpans, unimpressed, and Zhongli laughs spritely.

"You know us scientists, Albedo. We are always observing."

Albedo is coming out of the shower that night, running a towel through his mop of hair, when he clicks into Instagram. He once had notifs on only for his phone to die when one of his paintings blew up overnight from another celebrity interference, so never again.

He sees new messages, so he goes to them. His heart stutters a little when he sees Aether's icon and he clicks it with haste. There's a picture of the science mural, along with a question: was this you???? i feel like i recognise the art!

Albedo smiles, leaning against a wall as he types back Yes, it was me.

- YOO. WHAT. YOU ARE SERIOUSLY SO COOL

Haha, thank you. Do you major in a science subject, Aether? -

- yeah i do geography! so the earth and maps you painted made me rlly happy!! oh dude this is so cool i swear i couldnt stop staring
- OH OH LOOK I TOOK A PIC IN FRONT OF IT

Albedo's breath hitches when Aether sends said photo. Aether, ethereally clad in a simple white crop top and baggy gold jeans, is smiling brightly at the camera as he stands in front of the mural, arms spread out as if he's showing it off. Someone else clearly took the photo, and Albedo is more jealous than he can describe. Imagine being able to witness such beauty in person.

- SEE YOUR MURAL IS SO PRETTYYY

And you have effortlessly made it even prettier. -

- huh?
- OH
- WHAHDHWDHDLS YOU BIG OL CHARMER YOU

Have a nice night, Aether. -

- you too dr mysterious charming artist!!!

Albedo falls back on his bed with a dreamy smile on his face, resting his phone on his chest.

Then he grabs a pillow, pulls it over his face, and spends ten minutes silently suffocating himself with it.

Chapter Text

"You know, if you ever want to invite me along to one of your coffee dates with Dr Zhongli," Kaeya says sleazily as he drapes himself over Albedo's sofa, "I would definitely consider it."

"And by 'consider' you mean run so fast that you'll end up getting hit by a moving car," Albedo snorts as he resurfaces out of the kitchen and hands Kaeya a cup of tea. Kaeya scoffs, sitting up as he whines, "He's the finest man I've ever seen and I'm offended you're not letting me use our friendship for my benefits!"

"When your benefits happen to be 'get with my advisor', I don't think you can really blame me," Albedo deadpans. "Also, I think he might be in his forties...maybe fifties...?"

That surprises Kaeya enough to make him sit ramrod straight. "What?!"

"Alright, I don't actually know, but there are many rumours. No-one knows his age but he seems very timeless," Albedo clarifies, sipping his tea. "He had his first breakthrough thirty years ago. Even if he's in his forties, that means he would have been really young then, so...there are assumptions." 

"If you're trying to put me off him then it's really not working," Kaeya says lowly, eye twinkling, and Albedo grimaces as he pushes Kaeya's face away.

"Gross."

"Okay okay, as much it pains me to move on from this topic, this isn't what I'm here for. We still need to talk about the Aether stuff," Kaeya says firmly, and Albedo nods morosely. When Kaeya had asked to meet up, he already knew this would be the reason for it but still...Albedo feels worried about what Kaeya is going to say. Will he call him weird? Creepy? Tell him this isn't normal behaviour?

"Alright..."

"Hey, why do you look so sad? I just want to know details," Kaeya assures him, curling an arm around Albedo's shoulders. "Like...why? How?"

"I saw him on Dr Zhongli's Instagram, and went to his account. Then I was just...enchanted," Albedo murmurs, a faraway look in his eyes. "You know how sometimes I see something and I simply have to draw it?"

"Yeah, I remember that time we were on a walk and I realised I'd been talking to air for who knows how long cause you'd ditched me along the way to draw a damn car," Kaeya grumbles and Albedo argues, "It was a motorbike and please, will you ever let that go?"

"I thought you got kidnapped! I was gonna call the fucking police!"

"And I apologised," Albedo says with a roll of his eyes, still not buying that Kaeya was ever that worried. Kaeya just frowns at him. "Anyhow, that's what occurred. I spent the night drawing him like a man possessed and posted it without thinking...I just really wanted to share some of his ethereality with more people."

"Ethere- oh wow, you have got it bad," Kaeya laughs, sounding disbelieving but also strangely happy. "He contact you or anything?"

"Yes. He was very sweet about it. Ah, you can read the messages," Albedo says, reaching for his phone and handing it to Kaeya once he gets the right page up. Kaeya begins reading with a smile, which makes sense with Aether's first few messages, but as he keeps reading his eyes get wider and wider. By the time he gets to the photo, his jaw drops.

"Albedo, what- you two are like, proper flirting!" Kaeya yelps, throwing the phone away from him like it's suddenly become a poisonous snake. "'And you have effortlessly made it even prettier' - what the FUCK. And this Dr Mysterious Artist shit is kinky."

"Kaeya," Albedo says disapprovingly, and Kaeya raises hands in surrender.

"I'm just saying! Heck, I don't even know what to do with this...pretty new guy turns up and Albedo of all people nabs him before the first week of the semester's done? You're gonna have people on your back with pitchforks, man."

"I am not 'nabbing' anyone," Albedo argues, shaking his head when Kaeya gives him the most betrayed look like he's saying 'are you seriously the guy I've known for six years?'. "I am just not about to hide the fact that I think he is beautiful. He deserves to hear it every day."

"Oh my-" Kaeya grabs a cushion and yells into it for a good minute before swiftly throwing it to the side and settling calmly in his seat. "Alright. Albedo, you can not go around saying stuff like that to him if you don't want him getting the wrong idea. He honestly seems like the sweetest guy ever and I know you. I know you tend to kinda...be super charming without meaning to? You know what I'm talking about, with all the confessions you've faced."

That's true. Albedo hasn't had many confessions, but having any at all has always been a surprise to him. He doesn't quite know what he does to make people feel like he's interested in them, when he only ever tries to exercise common courtesy. He doesn't know what's appealing about him either, other than his looks apparently. But when it comes to how he's been talking to Aether...he can see where Kaeya is coming from.

Yet, he doesn't hate the idea of something forming between them. He imagines for a moment, having the kind of relationship where he can run his fingers through Aether's sunlight hair, have his bright smile facing him, come home to his sweet happy chatter...

So maybe, he doesn't need to be cautious?

"You've had a lot more than me," Albedo says evasively and Kaeya waves a dismissive hand.

"That's 'cause I'm a flirty bastard, and none of it matters 'cause I only got eyes for Zhongli anyway - but I'm just looking out for you, and all the poor souls you keep accidentally seducing! Like c'mon, you don't even treat the people who have confessed to you before even a little bit like how you have Aether, so imagine what he'd think?"

"I don't know what he would think," Albedo says quietly. "I do not know him, we have not met. And he would most likely not look twice at me if we did."

Kaeya frowns, eyes sad as he looks like he wants to say something but Albedo looks away and coughs abruptly. "Anyway. I am sure you're busy, and I'll be heading off to the laboratory soon, so you can be on your way if you wish."

"Aw hey, don't be like that, we can drop this topic if you want! And I gotta say, I'm a little proud of you too with all this flirty stuff. I've taught you well," Kaeya sniffs, resting a hand over his heart, and that does crack a smile out of Albedo. Kaeya grins at the sight and downs his tea in one before holding out a hand. "Come on, what d'you say to some good old-fashioned morning drinks at Dawn?"

"You mean where I watch you drink and get chewed out by Diluc for an hour?" Albedo chuckles, but he takes Kaeya's hand nonetheless and stumbles after the guy who elegantly drags him over to the front door.

"As always!"

- oh dr mysterious charming artist guess whaaaaat~
- i kno your name now!!!

You did not even give me a chance to guess, Aether. -

- hehhe pls forgive me!!

Well, how did you manage that? -

- zhongli!
- after mentioning the drawing he knew who i was talking abt!! but he seemed confused when i mentioned your art acc?

Ah, yes. Most people do not know about this account. -

- oh!! omg im so sorry!

It's quite alright. I don't really keep it secret on purpose. -

- ah cool!!
- btw it seems like youre pretty popular on campus? everyone i talk to seems to kno your name!

...Is there a reason you're mentioning my name to every person you talk to? -

- QHHDAAHD OH RIGHT THAT MUST SOUND SO SKETCHY
- IT WAS JUS CURIOSITY I SWEAR!!
- wait. if zhongli doesnt kno abt this acc then how does he kno abt the drawing?

I told him about it. -
Since I discovered that you knew him. -
Not for any strange reason. -

- hehe alright! i believe you!!
- wha. my friend just texted me 'how do u know sexy ta mr albedo'.........

Oh my gods. -
I don't know who your friend is but do not believe them. I am NOT sexy. -

- HAHHA awh im not quite sure i can believe you this timeee
- but!! i guess i will jus have to see for myself ;)

You will be sorely disappointed. Also please don't tell Kaeya that students are actually starting to call me...that. He will have a field day. -

- lmaoooooo ofc ofc
- oh class is starting i have to go!! but have a lovely day dr mysterious charming sexy artist albedo <3

AETHER. -

- <333333

Albedo tucks his phone away into his pocket when he reaches campus, shaking his head. But he pauses when he sees a motorcycle parked outside. His eyes grow slightly wide as he moves towards it almost in a trance, awed. "Wow..."

The motorcycle is a lithe one, mostly black but there's gold detailing, and the inside of the wheels are lined with gold with shining aureate spokes. It's so glossy and well-kept that Albedo can see his own reflection in it, and he absent-mindedly reaches out a hand to touch...

No, Albedo, it's not good to touch other people's things, he chastises himself, disappointedly pulling his hand back. So he just admires the motorbike with his eyes a little more, and hopes he'll be able to see it again when he has time to draw it.

Seems like he's destined to become obsessed with anything even slightly gold from now on.

Eventually he turns away with a heavy heart and walks towards the science department building. He nods at the people who greet him, then remembers to button up his lab coat when he reaches the laboratory. He pushes the door open and smiles when he sees Dr Zhongli already there, gently shaking a flask of something dark orange. Though Albedo feels surprised to see someone standing near him, a young man who looks perpetually mad at the world as he stands there with arms crossed and eyes closed.

"Albedo!" Zhongli calls, waving, and the boy beside him growls, "Don't wave with the hand you got the potion in."

"Oh," Zhongli realises, quickly putting down the flask. "Yes! Thank you, Xiao. Though it's not a potion."

"Why not? You already always look like some sketchy wizard anyway," Xiao grumbles, which has Albedo giving Zhongli a questioning look when he comes over. Zhongli just sends him an unassuming smile, so Albedo decides to leave it be. He tries to greet Xiao too, but the boy won't even look at him.

"Dr Zhongli, I have a question," Albedo says pensively, and Zhongli nods at him.

"Ask away."

"How old are you? It's not even on your Wikipedia page."

Both Zhongli and Xiao stare at Albedo in surprise, before Zhongli turns to Xiao and asks, "Why did you never tell me I had a Wikipedia page, Xiao?"

"Wha- why'd I gotta be the one to tell you that, old man!"

"I would have liked to see it. I wonder what kinds of things they are saying about me..."

Albedo decides to stay quiet about the fact that he's a pretty main contributor to Zhongli's Wikipedia page. He's been trying to keep how big a fan he is quiet for quite some time and he's not about to expose himself now. "So..."

Zhongli turns back to him and says with an amused smile, "Why, doesn't the idiom state that it's rude to ask a gentleman's age?"

"Isn't that for a...lady?"

"Well, my son told me the other day that gender is a social construct!"

Albedo blinks. "You have a-"

"Not your son," Xiao growls so low that Albedo almost can't make out the words, but Zhongli leans in close and stage-whispers behind his hand, "Don't believe him, Albedo, he called me Dad yesterday."

"Oh gods, it was a fucking accident, let it go-"

"It was the happiest moment of my life, Xiao, I simply cannot 'let it go'."

Xiao just groans. "Look, now your friend or whatever is here, I'm leaving. If you need money later, get it from somewhere else."

"Thank you for the help, darling!" Zhongli calls after him, and Xiao throws him a glare over his shoulder before shrugging off his labcoat and leaving without another word. Albedo gives Zhongli a raised eyebrow as the man happily goes back to his flasks.

"I think you teased him too much, sir..."

Zhongli laughs. "Just in jest. Xiao deserves a lot of light in his life. He has been through a lot, you see."

"Is he really your son?" Albedo asks in wonder, noting the incredibly fond and wistful tone of Zhongli's voice. He could also tell that the two are really close - Zhongli is a very refined man, and barely ever jokes to that extent with anyone. "Adopted, maybe?"

"Oh, I'm afraid not. Though I feel like I may have adopted him if we met under better circumstances...no, he is simply lodging with me at the moment. But I have known him for a long time." Then Zhongli seems to suddenly remember something. "Ah, and he's very good friends with Aether! Getting to know him might be in your best interest."

Zhongli then rests a solemn hand on his chest. "My ward and protégé being friends, what a wonderful endeavour. Though I'm not quite sure how you two would ever meet, Xiao doesn't go to this university..."

"Hold your horses, doctor, I don't even know Aether yet," Albedo chuckles as he fetches some lab glasses and tries to maintain a cool facade after being called Zhongli's protégé. Zhongli probably has no clue what the things he says does to Albedo, the man's too confident and detached from normal human life to notice those things. "I'm starting to think you won't tell me your age because you're actually immortal."

Zhongli smiles, his eyes flashing at Albedo in a way that reminds him of sparkling topaz. "What an entertaining conclusion. Is it the lack of wrinkles?"

"Sure," Albedo humours him, and Zhongli just chuckles before he clues Albedo in on his findings so far.

Zhongli tells him tidbits about Aether every now and then as they work, very randomly, and Albedo is both thankful for it and embarrassed that Zhongli feels the need to do that. But he quietly listens, to the fact that Aether and Lumine are currently countries apart and Aether sorely misses his twin. That Aether likes to look at stars. That he learnt to play the drums because it satisfied his constant urge to be moving or doing something. That he has a whole collection of earrings that Zhongli has also contributed to. That he really likes tattoos ("He'll love your ones!" Zhongli says sincerely, yet Albedo turns pink at the notion because no-one can see his tattoos unless he takes his clothes off) and him and Lumine are trying to think of matching ones.

"He is also a delightful social busybody," Zhongli tells Albedo fondly when they're clearing up, while Albedo is quite flushed and sincerely trying to find a way to tell Zhongli to stop because his mind is really swimming with just Aether Aether Aether right now. He has no clue how every single thing he's hearing is making him even more enamoured but it is. "He is always going around campus helping people and trying to make himself useful. He's appeared at my office twice already asking if I need help! I thought it's supposed to be the other way around with students-"

"Alright, alright, I get it," Albedo groans eventually, sinking his burning face into his hands. "He's wonderful and beautiful and extremely out of my league, I understand, please!"

"What?" Zhongli asks in wide-eyed surprise as Albedo lifts his head to look at him miserably. "If anything, Aether is out of your league. You are one of the smartest men I have ever met."

"That's...not what I mean by league," Albedo sighs, smiling wryly when Zhongli looks even more confused. "And you know, you compliment people far too easily."

"Do I? Well, either way, it's quite a sight to see you flustered. I am truly sorry if I pushed any sort of button," Zhongli apologises sadly and Albedo straightens up, quickly shaking his head. He really can't stand whenever Dr Zhongli is upset because it makes Albedo feel upset too, and Albedo really usually isn't one for empathy.

"No, no, no need for apologies. I just- well, with you telling me so much about him, I guess you already know..." Albedo grimaces, resting a hand on his head. "Goodness. Is it really so obvious that I'm so taken by him?"

"Well," Zhongli says with a kind smile, "it might just be me noticing the way your eyes shine at the mere mention of his name. And as your advisor, it is my job to ensure you pursue your interests."

"Even if the interest is a person?" Albedo snorts, but Zhongli nods very firmly, looking solemn.

"Especially if it's a person. I think making friends is a very important thing, young Albedo."

"So, hold on. You're telling me all these things about Aether to get me to try to be friends with him?"

"Indeed," Zhongli agrees shamelessly. "Albedo, you are, as the kids say, a loner. It greatly saddens me."

Albedo has no clue what he thought would come out of this day, but it definitely wasn't his number one idol calling him a loner.

Oh gods. Albedo is actually officially the lamest person in the world.

"I just don't see the need for social interaction but I-I do have friends," Albedo tries to argue, but he's so wounded that it comes out pretty weakly. "I...I have Kaeya. And Sucrose. I talk to Jean every now and then. I have- you! We talk a lot, right?"

"Yes, because I initiate asking you out for coffee or working with me and you won't say no because I'm your advisor," Zhongli replies, now looking rather amused as he rests his chin on folded hands, and Albedo wants to crawl into a hole. He also really wants to refute that that is not the reason he says yes because why would he ever in his entire life turn down spending time with the Dr Zhongli - but he blinks when Zhongli laughs the loudest that Albedo's ever heard him do so. It sounds surprisingly...warm. "I only jest, Albedo, please don't take me too seriously. I will especially not refute your relationship with Kaeya, you two seem very sweet, but even then I feel like you keep him at a significant distance. I just feel sad that I never see you with anyone if you aren't helping them with something, or that you never talk about anyone in your life...which is why when you took an interest in Aether, I was delighted! If anyone could catch your interest, really, of course it had to be Aether."

"Stop this," Albedo insists, feeble. "You know what you're doing. You're guilting me into approaching him. This is unethical."

"I was not," Zhongli frowns, looking rather hurt and oh, now Albedo feels a million times worse. What a wonderful day this is shaping up to be. "I simply care for you. And I think Aether would truly be so lovely for you!"

Trying to ignore that Zhongli sounds like a doting mother trying to set up her kid, Albedo asks a cautious, "...you do?"

Zhongli nods spritely. "I do. And I think you'll have a very enlightening time trying to figure out why."

Albedo thinks over those words for a second, eyebrows furrowing as he slowly, slowly feels himself caving. Soon he just slumps against the workbench, sighing, "Are you a walking Aether advert or something?"

"International deal of two for one if I fetch Lumine from Inazuma," Zhongli says with a wink, and Albedo finds himself laughing more than he has in a very long time. Dr Zhongli really is amazing.

And if even Zhongli wants him to then maybe, just maybe, Albedo will try seeking out the golden flower.

- DR MYSTERIOUS CHARMING SEXY ARTIST ALBEDO GUESS WHAT GUESS WHAT
- I HAVE FOUND OUT WHAT IS APPARENTLY SO SEXY ABT YOU
- your VOICE!!!

Albedo actually drops his phone when he sees that message, once again at night before he's ready to sleep.

His voice? His boring storybook voice that even makes himself want to fall asleep sometimes?

You didn't let me guess again. -
): -

- awwww im sorry!!!
- )))):

I really didn't expect to have the words 'I have found out what is apparently so sexy about you' ever be yelled at me through a phone screen. -

- hahha well i'm glad i get to surprise you!!
- okok so i did a tiny bit jus a SMIDGE of investigating. and yeah everyone keeps saying your voice is really nice!! like calm and dreamy apparently everyone is simping over it damn
- MAN every single day i keep getting more intrigued by you wtf! you just seem so cooooooool

You act like I'm Superman. -

- LMAO well i wouldn't be surprised if you were at this rate!!

With all these expectations, I really can only say that you'll be disappointed if we were to meet, Aether. -

- NOOOO DONT SAY THAT </3 i definitely think youll be One Hundred Percent Cooler irl
- JUST WAIT UNTIL I BUMP INTO YOU DR ARTIST!! JUS U WAIT!!!!

Albedo smiles fondly, about to tap out a reply when he sees that Aether sent a photo. He stares with bated breath, heart leaping into his throat as he sees Aether pointing at the camera, in sweet dinosaur-patterned pyjamas with his sunlight hair tousled, golden eyebrows furrowed, and full lips in a half-pout as he pretends to look like some serious gangster. 'IM COMING FOR YOU' is messily scrawled at the top along with an angry face emoji, and that's it. Albedo is officially going to pass away today, death due to adorableness.

Somehow I forgot how gorgeous you are and it's the worst thing I have ever done. -

- QAHDHAK ALBEDO
- I WAS NOT EVEN TRYING TO LOOK GOOD

You do not need to try. At all. -

- oh my gods im going to SCREAM i am never sending u a pic again........

No! I am sorry. Please do. -

- YOU .
- just!! jus wait ok!!!

I shall wait. -

- <3

I'm too far gone, Albedo thinks to himself after he's put his phone down, hiding his face in his pillow for the millionth time this week. Too too far.

Chapter Text

Albedo is outside sitting on a bench on campus, indulging in his Thursday morning leisure sketches. Kaeya is sprawled over the grass at Albedo's feet, leaning back on his hands as he listens to music through his headphones and smiles serenely at the sky, eyes closed.

Albedo's first sketch had been of something in his line of sight, so he chose the most interesting tree he could see. Then Kaeya had come along after a class and for some reason decided to spend his time with Albedo after spotting him, so he sketched him. Kaeya's outfits are some of his favourites to draw, and Kaeya is honestly the perfect muse, someone who doesn't shy away from attention and always looks good at any angle.

"Handsome bastard," Albedo mutters as he bitterly shades his hair and Kaeya laughs loudly at him.

The next few sketches are of anything random that comes to mind, like gold motorcycles, like Dr Zhongli's topaz eyes, like a field of wheat, like bubbling conical flasks of solutions, like hair of woven sunlight belonging to a beautiful boy staring up at him out of the page with narrowed eyes, an angry pout on his lips...

So pretty. You are so pretty and it will kill me, Albedo thinks helplessly, tracing a hand gently over the drawing and imagining the tiny golden flower nuzzling against his finger, pout eventually blossoming into the brightest of smiles. Then Albedo pauses, wondering what on earth he's doing.

This is getting ridiculous.

Albedo is about to compose himself and find something new to sketch, when his ears pick up on a familiar sound. The beautiful jaunty music of a lyre rings through the air and it's almost like the plants perk up at the sound, a soft breeze rustling through the air and carrying the sound along with it.

Albedo looks around, but before he sees the reason for the music, he notices a suspicious figure clad in a hoodie and sunglasses peeking behind a statue. Albedo notes the teal undertone of a longer strand of hair peeking out of the stranger's hood, then follows their line of sight to see the familiar self-proclaimed bard, eyes closed as he plays his old-fashioned lyre. People walk by with mild merriment, all used to Venti's random performances by now, and Venti flashes a wink at an unsuspecting passer-by every now and then.

"I'll be back in a moment, Kaeya," Albedo says distractedly, getting up when Kaeya gives him a dismissive wave. He tucks his sketchbook into his side then walks over to the hooded figure, waiting until he's right behind him to say a casual, "Hello, Xiao, what brings you here?"

"FUCKING SHIT- OI!" Xiao screeches, jumping almost three feet before he whirls around along with a fist that Albedo manages to dodge. Then Xiao calms down enough to actually see Albedo, and he blinks. "Oh, sorry. You're Zhongli's friend, or something."

"That I am," Albedo says, regarding Xiao's still raised fist in amusement and Xiao turns the slightest shade of red before he lowers it. "Apologies for surprising you."

"It’s fine," Xiao mutters, seemingly having lost interest in Albedo as he turns to look back at Venti. Albedo looks at him curiously.

"Do you...have a fascination in Venti, Xiao?"

"The heck? You talk weird. I just like his music, it calms me down," Xiao mutters. Albedo feels surprised by that answer, about to question some more until Xiao suddenly straightens up. Albedo looks ahead to see that Venti had spotted them, a smile on his lips as he sends Xiao a famed wink. Albedo watches curiously when Xiao quickly tugs his hood over his burning face and tries to hide more behind the statue. His voice is shaky and quiet when he asks Albedo, "Do...you know what department he's in?"

"Hm? Venti isn't a student," Albedo says, and Xiao turns his head to stare at him with wide eyes.

"What?"

"He's not quite a professor, but he's the coordinator of the music club here at the university. Though apparently he doesn't show up very often, quite a free spirit. He's actually an old friend of Dr Zhongli's, did you not know?" 

"...no," Xiao says quietly, like he's been told something that's changed his entire view of the world. "Damn, maybe I need to talk to the old man more."

"So, what are you doing here?" Albedo changes the subject after a slightly tense moment of silence, not wanting to tease the boy as much as Zhongli does. Xiao grumbles something under his breath as he turns fully to face Albedo, crossing his arms.

"Gonna pick up Zhongli when he comes out. Old man knows how to drive but doesn't have a damn car. He just walks everywhere and has people staring at him all the time, the idiot."

That definitely sounds like Zhongli, since Albedo's gone on a few walks with the man where many people stare and whisper (not even usually because they know who Zhongli is but because of the fact that he looks like a tall handsome storybook villain come to life) while Zhongli happily walks on none the wiser. "I see."

"What's that," Xiao asks flatly, gesturing to Albedo's sketchbook, and Albedo brings it into his hands.

"A sketchbook. I sort of drew Venti once, if you would like to see."

Xiao's eyes widen slightly, as if he clearly wants to say yes without actually saying yes, and Albedo smiles as he decides to open up his sketchbook and show him anyway. He locates the right page, remembering the day when he had been getting ready to draw a commission outside of a usually quiet café when suddenly Venti came along out of nowhere, definitely drunk and singing a laughing tune as he spun around and a student Albedo didn't recognise tried to get him to stop.

It was only a quick sketch that Albedo did, because Albedo has got used to hastily trying to capture people's expressions because they change very quickly. This was one filled with blues and greens, with Venti's loud grin front and centre in front of a background of music notes woven into colourful wind that eventually materialised into Venti's hair.

Usually when Albedo does quick sketches like this ('immortalisations of joy' is what he calls them), he will tear out the page and give them to the person he drew. This is because he feels no desire to keep them, and finds it much more rewarding to see someone's reaction to him drawing them (though it has got him into a few unfortunate situations where the other person thinks he's hitting on them). But Venti had moved too quickly for Albedo to give him the sketch, having disappeared from his sight once the sketch was finished. Quick as the wind.

Xiao's mouth opens slightly as he stares at the drawing, eyes big and shining. But then he seems to see something and his eyebrows furrow, mouth now forming a frown.

"What's your name again?" Xiao asks lowly, eyes suddenly so narrowed that they're almost slits, and Albedo hopes he hasn't done something wrong.

"Albedo?"

"Ugh. Ugh," Xiao groans, looking so disappointed in the world. "The artist dude Aether won't stop talking about is one of Dad's nerd friends, no offence. Kill me now."

There is far too much to unpack from everything Xiao just said. For one thing, Albedo had completely forgotten that Xiao and Aether were friends. Then, Aether won't stop talking about Albedo...? What even is there to say other than 'oh some weirdo drew me and won't stop calling me pretty'?

(There's also the fact that Xiao very easily called Zhongli his dad. Albedo will have to tell Zhongli about that later.)

"What...what does Aether say about me?" Albedo asks weakly, chest feeling tight, but he regrets it when Xiao glares at him like he's dirt under his shoe. He still answers, though.

"Annoying stuff about how he can't believe he's met practically everyone on campus except for you, and I'm saying you gotta stop complimenting him already 'cause I'm the one who has to deal with his freaking out whenever you do," Xiao snaps. "Dude's self-esteem is practically zero which sucks 'cause literally everyone loves him but he's not used to people like you. People who are way too blunt about these things. You're scaring him."

"I'm what?" Albedo asks quietly, voice stilted by shock. "But...but he never seems scared, he always - treats it like a joke, so-"

"Yeah, defence mechanism! Who wants to show when they're scared!" Xiao yells like Albedo's stupid (which Albedo might as well be when it comes to anything social) so Albedo immediately shuts up, a sinking feeling in his chest. "Just tone it down, will you?"

"Of...of course," Albedo mutters, hugging his sketchbook to his chest as he looks down. "I will try."

"Oh great, now he looks like a kicked puppy," Xiao grumbles under his breath before he clears his throat. "I didn't mean to be...harsh. I'm just protective over Aether. 'Cause he's a trusting idiot, and I half thought he was getting involved with some pervert at first."

"I'm glad you don't think I'm a pervert anymore, at least," Albedo says gratefully, though Xiao eyes him in a way that seems to imply 'I never quite said that'. But then he shrugs.

"Yeah. Whatever. If Zhongli likes you then that means you're definitely a good person, so...just don't be weird."

It stings a little, knowing that what Albedo has been so far is 'weird'. Though it makes sense, that with the first person that Albedo has ever felt this kind of way for, he's scaring them away before they've even become acquainted.

Gods. He has to apologise.

"Thank you, Xiao. Goodbye," Albedo says quickly before walking away just as fast, reaching down to grab Kaeya and pull him up to his feet without even stopping. "Kaeya, I need your help. I sincerely, direly, completely need your-"

"Hey, hey, as much as I love to hear you beg, can you slow down for a sec?!" Kaeya yelps, wriggling his arm out of Albedo's vice-like grip as he struggles to keep up with Albedo's power-walking pace. "How can someone with such small legs be so fast, you damn chihuahua!"

Albedo ignores him, even attempting to move even faster because he wants to reach his apartment as soon as possible. He hears Kaeya groan loudly from behind him, but the man runs to catch up without any more complaint. "Seriously, what's wrong? Are you alright?"

"I am fine. Kind of. Let's get home then I will tell you what I need," is all Albedo says. Kaeya sighs.

"Alright, fine. But tell me what's wrong too because I don't want you to be stressing out about something by yourse-"

Kaeya suddenly stops talking, which would worry Albedo a bit more if he wasn't so preoccupied with getting home. "Um...Albedo?"

"What."

Kaeya laughs nervously. "H-Hypothetically...how would you feel if you were to meet Aether right now?"

"I would probably die. Most likely peacefully, after seeing a sight so wonderful, but it would be death all the same," Albedo says solemnly, shivering at the thought especially after his conversation with Xiao. Kaeya laughs for real at that, but Albedo fixes him with a hard stare and makes sure to ascertain, "I am not joking."

"Oh," Kaeya says meekly, sounding nervous again, and now Albedo's a little curious as to why Kaeya isn't making fun of him. "Well, ah. Then I think you might want to look where you're going...and don't say I didn't warn-!"

"Kaeya!" a bright voice calls, friendly and warm, and Albedo catches Kaeya immediately paint on a friendly smile. Then he says three words that make Albedo stop right in his tracks, heart dropping to his feet.

"Why hello, Aether!"

Wait. No.

Jerkily, Albedo slowly turns his head. He half wants to look. He half doesn't. But it's too late, and the air cleanly gets knocked out of his lungs as he sees a beautiful haze of gold waving from the other side of the field before they start jogging over like a happy puppy. Albedo staggers the tiniest bit, clutching onto Kaeya's arm like it's life support, and Kaeya worriedly lets him.

"Fancy seeing you around here, 2nd year freshie," Kaeya teases even while casting an anxious look to a malfunctioning Albedo, and when Aether laughs as he comes to a stop in front of them, Albedo feels like he's been shot. The sound warms him from head to toe, and makes his chest so tight that he doesn't feel like he's breathing anymore. "Have you...met my friend?"

"I don't think I have," Aether says spritely, turning warm golden eyes onto Albedo now, and Albedo has to clutch Kaeya tighter. "It's nice to meet you, I'm Aether!"

Albedo knows this is the part where he should introduce himself. He knows this, and yet he can only stare. It's not his fault, truly, when Aether just has to look one hundred times more ethereal in real life with sparkling eyes that consume every ray of light in the park, soft-looking porcelain skin that is slowly turning a light pink the longer Albedo stares, sunlight strands of hair dishevelled and aureate and so close that Albedo could touch them.

"Golden flower," Albedo breathes, before he can stop himself. Before he even knows that he's saying anything.

Kaeya completely throws away his usually refined nature (around people other than Albedo, who has to deal with the whole eccentric package) to gape at him. And now Aether flushes full-force, momentarily looking so confused and flustered that he stammers out all kinds of sounds, before his eyes suddenly widen and he stares at Albedo with a newfound astonished clarity.

"...Albedo?!"

Except Albedo doesn't quite get to hear the luxury of his paramour saying his name. Because by the time he does, Albedo has turned on his heel, and quite literally bolted right out of campus.

This might be even worse than dying.

The only good part about this day is that Klee doesn't have school today and since Alice knows Albedo's apartment code, when Albedo reaches his apartment in a frenzy and sees Klee on his couch and smiling up at him, it might just be the best feeling in the entire world.

"Albedo," Klee says with a frown a little while later, when Albedo is sitting down at his desk and hugging Klee so fiercely with his head flopped into the little crook of her neck as Klee paws comfortingly at Albedo's hair. "Klee likes hugs, but Albedo has been hugging Klee for too long!"

"Oh. I'm sorry," Albedo says, dazed as he pulls away. He taps Klee's nose when the girl peers at him worriedly. "I'm so sorry, Klee. Albedo has just had a bad day."

"So he wants Klee hugs?"

Albedo nods shamefully, and it's nice to be able to smile when Klee squints her eyes in thought, pretending like she's considering it. Then she giggles and throws her little arms around Albedo's neck. "Then Albedo can have Klee hugs!"

Kaeya texts soon enough, a frantic message about how he has a class but they need to talk as soon as possible. Albedo feels touched by his concern, and tells him that Klee has come over so they can do that tomorrow. Kaeya sends him a sad face in return, along with 'BUT IM WORRIED ABT U U BIG DOLT', and Albedo tries to assure him not to be. Kaeya probably has more important things to care about, and Albedo...Albedo should just, ignore these feelings bubbling up inside of him. That's the best thing to do. He shall apologise to Aether the next time he sees him then simply never interact with him again, doomed to a life without gold and sunlight and muses with auras of the stars...

"Albedo looks sad again," Klee frowns when Albedo is spacing out after he lets Klee dip her fingers into his acrylics to decorate whatever new thing she's making. He blinks when Klee pinches at Albedo's cheeks and reminds him that she's there to make him forget all the bad things, even if temporarily. So he shakes his head, telling her, "Klee's here to make me feel better," and Klee nods in proud agreement before she grabs Albedo's hand and drags him to her latest treasure.

It's not until hours later when Klee is cheerily waving goodbye to him until she's out of sight that Albedo dares to look at his phone, each second that passes feeling like agony as he unlocks it and swipes until he gets to Instagram.

Will Aether have messaged him? What would he have said? Is he angry? Upset? Confused? Or maybe he's not bothered at all, because ultimately him and Albedo do not know each other, and Aether actually probably most likely didn't message him at all because why would he after all-

There are six messages from him. Oh gods.

- albedo ALBEDO ARE YOU OK I AM SO SORRY DID I DO STH WRONG???
- pls i feel so bad oh my gosh are you alright?? u ran out there like SONIC it was kinda cool but WHYYY
- then i was starting to think it might not even be you but kaeya said it was and i wanted to ask more qs but kaeya basically left as fast as you!!
- WAS IT MY FAULT?? WAS I WEIRD IM SORRY I JUS GOT EMBARRASSED BC YOU WERE STARING
- OH my gods i am Not making this better
- JUS PLS!! PLS MESSAGE ME BACK ))):

Albedo's heart squeezes in his chest. Aether is such an earnest sweetheart, and Albedo feels terrible for making them feel like any of this was his fault.

Aether. -

- OH THANK GODS HELLOOOO

Hello. I am so sorry for worrying you. I promise I am alright, I hope you are alright also. I need to ask you something. -

- yes yes im fine and ofc pls ask away!!

Would you be interested in meeting with me at Dawn Winery tonight? -
I will explain everything there. -

- wh
- WHAT.

...This is not sounding like a yes. -

- NO I JUST
- oh man i
- i kno youre rlly rlly forward and everything but
- dont you think we
- we should get to kno e/o a little more first???

? -
I'm sorry, Aether, I am not understanding what that has to do with anything. -

- AAAAAHHH OK OK....FINE NVM NVM
- I WILL NOT TURN DOWN THIS OPPORTUNITY

It's quite fascinating, how Albedo almost never has any clue what Aether is talking about.

Ah. Good? -
8pm, if that's alright? -

- that soon?? o oh wow
- i mean but yeah i can do 8!

Good. Tell me if you have to cancel. Take care on your way. -

- you too!! looking forward to it <3

Albedo isn't quite sure why Aether is looking forward to it after Albedo's little stunt earlier, but he digresses. And Aether was correct, 8pm is rather soon, so if Albedo rushes part of the research paper that he had wanted Zhongli to look over tomorrow then he should reach the bar just in the nick of time. He hopes.

In the nick of time ends up really meaning in the nick of time.

Albedo always remembers to eat dinner if Klee's come over so luckily he's already done that, but then a commission client messages him asking if she can see any progress on a painting that Albedo hasn't even started yet. Albedo sighs to himself, then grabs his phone and pencils and just about manages to get himself into a very niche but useful mindset that allows him to dictate the research paper while beginning a sketch for the painting.

It's five minutes until eight when Albedo deems everything done for now and he snaps a quick photo to send to the client. That's when he sees the time, and his eyes grow wide.

"Fuck."

'AETHER I MIGHT BE A LITTLE LATE', Albedo quickly texts while shrugging on a coat and shoes before legging it out of his apartment. Oh gods, did he lock the door?

- aaa its ok! hehe it's rare for you to go all caps it surprised me

OH -
AUTOCAPS IS ON BY ACCIDENT BUT IT ALSO SEEMS APPROPRIATE AS I AM QUITE STRESSED -

- HAHHAH
- oh dr albedo you make me laugh sm
- dont be stressed!! i will wait here patiently for u <3

Albedo's chest warms with endearment and relief at Aether's replies, and now he feels a little better as he pockets his phone and keeps moving. It isn't long until the familiar street comes into view, and the bar looks as awake as ever. There are a few people milling about outside, but Albedo can only see one.

His breath hitches slightly as his steps slow, and Aether becomes clearer and brighter in his eyes with each step he takes. Aether, whose luscious hair has a yellow rose clip in the front as a fishtail braid rests over his shoulder. Whose gorgeous eyes are even more outlined by gentle eyeliner, lashes darker and longer than Albedo remembers, and Albedo realises with a start that Aether has put on makeup. His outfit also looks more put together than the ones in his photos, a dark velvet crop top and high-waisted white shorts, look completed with small (but amazing) things like his thigh-high gold boots, a black open leather jacket, a long feathery earring, a gold necklace with a diamond-shaped pendant.

Albedo feels faint.

Before he can gracelessly run away (again), Aether spots him. Albedo forces himself to keep walking and Aether rushes over to meet him halfway, cheeks pink and smile so bright. Albedo needs sunglasses. "Albedo!"

Albedo, to no-one's surprise, stares for a little longer. Then when he can finally speak, the first thing he says is a hoarse, "You dressed up. And I'm still wearing the same thing I was when I saw you earlier."

Aether's smile falters as his blush deepens, and he quickly shakes his head. "No, no, it's fine! I don't mind what you wear! I just, uh...wanted to dress up?"

Compliments are right on the tip of Albedo's tongue. Barely even compliments, just factual statements that just so happen to include telling Aether how sensational he looks. But he remembers Xiao's warnings, remembers the entire reason he's here, so he just about manages to hold back.

"Ah, you've got a little something," Aether says, stepping a little closer and Albedo forgets to breathe, brain threatening to turn into mush when Aether points at his cheek from such a near proximity. "Is it...paint?"

Albedo blinks, momentarily forgetting about the fact that Aether is killing him right now as he touches his face and feels the rough texture of dried paint. Then he realises. "Oh- I let Klee do some finger-painting and she touched my face..."

"Klee? Is she your kid?" Aether asks kindly and Albedo shakes his head with a sigh.

"Sadly not. Her mother is a friend and also very busy, so I help take care of her." Then Albedo groans, covering his face in shame. "Gosh, I look like an absolute mess covered in paint and - I didn't even brush my hair while you look...you look-"

"Albedo, it's okay," Aether assures him, resting a hand on his arm and Albedo slightly lowers his hand to see Aether giving him the sweetest smile, teasing and reassuring and shy all at once. Gods, even his personality seems beautiful so far. "I think you look super cute."

"Your eyes are so pretty and yet I'm starting to think you need to get them checked," Albedo says bitterly, and Aether blinks said eyes in surprise before he laughs, a faint flush painting the bridge of his nose. It makes Albedo feel miles better as he watches Aether with a soft smile, but he still feels bad. This really is just a small meeting so Albedo didn't think it mattered to put so little effort in his appearance, but the fact that Aether had clearly thought the exact opposite makes Albedo feel like he's in debt or something. Though he can't quite give Aether an IOU for him in a perfect outfit.

"Should we go in?" Aether asks, nodding his head towards the bar, and Albedo nods. Somehow that gets him another dazzling smile which puts him in a good mood, so he holds the door open for Aether and follows him inside.

"Hi, Diluc!" Aether calls brightly to the man manning the counter, and Albedo watches in intrigued horror as Diluc's usually stoic expression softens slightly while he nods at Aether. Wow. Even Diluc.

"Can I get you anything? Any drinks?" Albedo asks when they find a small booth in the corner of the room, one of Albedo's favourites. Aether considers for a moment, before shaking his head.

"Maybe later?"

Later? How long does Aether think they're going to be here?

Nevertheless, Albedo nods, wringing his hands as he tries to find a good way to say everything he needs to say. He's a smart man, he's taking a PhD for gods' sake, so he should be able to apologise in a kind and efficient way! But when he lifts his gaze and sees Aether looking earnestly at him, a smile lighting his face when they meet eyes, Albedo can only blurt out, "I am so sorry."

Aether's smile drops, clearly alarmed. "Sorry? Why?"

"It has been brought to my attention that I have been scaring you by being blunt and insensitive. This was never my intention, and I have never said anything to you with any ulterior motives, this I promise."

Aether stares at Albedo with an open mouth, and Albedo clenches his fists under the table, sincerely awaiting a reply. He watches as Aether's eyebrows furrow, before his golden eyes widen and he asks an incredulous, "Have you been talking to Xiao?!"

Albedo forgets his turmoil for a moment to feel quite impressed. "You are remarkably perceptive, Aether. First you knew who I was from just two words and now you've deducted this."

Aether flushes at the compliment, but quickly shakes his head. "N-No, it's not like that, I- it's just that Xiao's the only person that I've told this kind of thing to, especially using the word 'scaring'...how the hell did you two even meet?"

"Zhongli is my PhD supervisor if you recall so I spend a significant amount of time with him now, and Xiao seems to turn up sometimes too," Albedo explains, and Aether's cute mouth makes an 'o' shape. "Anyway, that is not important. I have asked you out here so I can apologise. I will 'tone it down'. In fact, you do not need to have any contact with me again-" 

"Hold on, backtrack," Aether says quickly, and Albedo realises with a start that Aether now looks red to the point that it seems worrying. "You asked me out here...to apologise for complimenting me?"

"Yes."

Aether looks like he's just been told the worst joke in the world. "That's the only reason?"

"Yes," Albedo says confusedly. "Sorry, am I missing something? I feel like sometimes our communication is a bit off."

Aether bites his lip, looking down for a second, but then he just chuckles weakly and shakes his head. "Yeah, I think that's my fault. Albedo, I...don't know what Xiao's told you, but you don't need to apologise for a single thing. Yeah, maybe it's kind of scary to have someone be so...direct, like you are? But all you're doing is saying nice things! It's super flattering and it actually makes me feel really happy and good about myself more than scared."

"Really? Really?" Albedo asks with wide eyes, voice laden with shock and Aether laughs for real now. "Because my goodness, I have been wanting to tell you how breathtaking you look since the moment I saw you outside the bar and it has felt like torture not saying anything."

"Albedo!" Aether whines, shy laughter in his tone as he hides his burning face behind his hands. "I know I said it's okay but you're gonna end up killing me!"

"Too much?" Albedo asks worriedly, and Aether squeaks, "Just a little bit!"

"I'm sorry..."

Aether fans himself a little to calm himself down before clearing his throat and sending Albedo a winning smile. "No more apologies! We're good. Can you just tell me why you ran away earlier?"

"Ah, yes," Albedo remembers. "Though I think it's largely self-evident."

Aether tilts his head to the side because he's dastardly adorable. "It is? I can't think of anything I did that could've made you do that, though..."

"Why do you keep thinking you did something wrong?" Albedo asks with a frown. Aether's low self-esteem is making itself quite obvious during this conversation, and Albedo does not understand it. "I called you 'golden flower' to your face, that was the first thing I ever said to you. I simply felt so humiliated that I couldn't face you."

Aether's jaw drops for at least the fourth time tonight, and Albedo tries not to squirm a little in his seat. Keeping eye contact is torture, especially when Aether's are as wide as the sun and just as blinding.

But Albedo jolts a little when Aether laughs.

It's not even like the gentle laughs he's been doing up until now. It's full-on, head thrown back, belly-aching laughter and though it's such a contagiously wonderful sight, Albedo feels unimpressed as he deadpans, "Yes, do tell me when you're done."

"HA, I'm- I'm sorry, I just-!" Aether cuts himself off with a wheeze, shaking his head wildly. "Ah, man. Cool Dr Mysterious Charming Sexy Artist Albedo getting shy? Awesome."

"I legitimately cannot believe you just said all that out loud," Albedo says, face feeling peculiarly hot, and Aether giggles.

"People are right about your voice, though. It- it really is nice," Aether says quietly, looking away as he tucks some stray hair behind his ear. Albedo's eyes are drawn to the golden strands, wondering if they feel as soft as they look. "U-Uh, anyway - we've had a lotta funny encounters, huh?"

"Yes," Albedo agrees morosely. "Can we start over, perhaps?"

"No way," Aether says immediately, voice teasing as he beams at Albedo who blinks at the reply. "I don't wanna pretend to forget that you drew me, or that you make me laugh a lot, or that you ran away from me because you got all cute and embarrassed. I'm afraid you're stuck with this!"

"Awful," Albedo says sourly, but he can't find it in him to feel an ounce of negative emotion when Aether laughs at him again. He feels like that is going to be a common occurrence. "Then I guess there is only one question left to ask. How did you figure out who I was when you first saw me?"

"Ah, well...'golden flower' reminded me of your drawing. So I just kinda guessed on a whim," Aether admits shyly, fiddling with his fingers. Albedo nods; he'd thought as much, and it makes sense, but it's still highly embarrassing. But Albedo forgets about that when Aether peeks at him, golden eyes sparkling with bashful curiousity. "Is that really what you...call me? In your head?"

Albedo hesitates before answering, chest tight.

"Would it be too much if I said yes?"

He watches worriedly as Aether is silent for a torturously long moment, expression unreadable. Then he holds up a hand, and Albedo slowly nods before Aether gets up and walks to the bathroom. All Albedo can do is sit there as he waits, slightly nervous and wondering if he should text Kaeya about this very strange turn of events-

He almost falls out of the booth when a loud long yell comes from the bathroom, making practically everyone in the bar jump as Diluc stares at the bathroom door like it's a three-headed monster. Then said door opens, and Aether comes out looking as shiny and smiley as ever. Albedo watches with wide eyes as the boy goes over to the bar and shakes his head merrily when Diluc, probably more out of confusion than worry, asks him what happened.

"Here's whiskey. I wasn't sure what you like but I'll drink it if you don't want it," Aether says spritely when he returns with two glasses, and Albedo jerkily nods before almost jumping again when Aether downs his own in a second before slamming the glass down on the table. Then he beams at Albedo. "Where were we?"

"You are the most fascinating person I have ever met," Albedo breathes, still wide-eyed, and Aether stares dryly at him before grabbing Albedo's glass.

"I just let out my frustrations, are you seriously gonna make me do it again?"

"No. No, ah, I'm sorry," Albedo says stiltedly, still a little dazed as he watches Aether drink the next glass almost as quickly. "Amazing..."

"You're looking at me like I'm a lab rat, doctor," Aether tells him amusedly, and Albedo thinks to himself that this might just be as much as he can take. Aether is a beautiful riveting specimen, and Albedo probably really will want to do (ethical!) experiments on him if this night stretches on any longer.

Time to end this heavenly phenomenon where someone like Aether is giving Albedo his time.

"I feel as if it is getting rather late. May I walk you home?"

Aether's face turns a soft pink, and his sweet smile feels like a splash of starlight. "Sure."

Bonus:

"XIAOOOO," is what Xiao hears through the phone when he begrudgingly answers Aether's call at eleven pm. "IT WASN'T. EVEN. A DATE."

"See, I fucking knew it," Xiao scoffs. "Thought it was weird how he went from hearing me telling him to tone it down to bloody asking you out."

"I dressed up for nothing! I was wearing my thigh-highs while he...he had paint on his face! D'you know how embarrassed I was?!" Aether yelps, and Xiao has to muster up all his will not to hang up on him.

"No-one cares about that. Did he do anything weird?"

"No! He was wonderful! And he's really cute and sweet and I want an audiobook narrated by him, what the hell!" Aether cries, and Xiao wrinkles his nose.

"Are you...drunk?"

"Okay, I might, I just maybe might have slammed back two whiskeys because I couldn't really handle him anymore."

Xiao face-palms. "You idiot."

"HE CALLS ME GOLDEN FLOWER! WHAT WOULD YOU DO IF SOMEONE CALLED YOU A GOLDEN FLOWER!" Aether yells, and Xiao yells back, "I WOULD THINK THEY'RE THE WEIRDEST PERSON EVER, YOU DITZ!"

"Xiaoooooooo-"

"Shut up, I'm coming over and making you tea. Don't tell Zhongli I'm coming."

"Don't tell Zhongli what, darling?" Zhongli calls from the living room, and Xiao throws a pillow at the wall.

Chapter Text

Hello Dr Zhongli. I was wondering if you might have any free time tomorrow to look over my research paper? -

- Albedo, how lovely to hear from you!
- I would love to but I'm afraid Xiao has whisked me off to a wonderful father-son bonding trip!

...Really? -

- I was surprised too, but for firefighter training Xiao apparently needs to spend a few days in another country so he just bundled me into his car and took me with him, for company I think. He has not told me much else but I am very intrigued.

Oh? Xiao is a firefighter-in-training? -

- He is! Isn't it wonderful? I am so proud of him.

That indeed is wonderful. Enjoy your trip then, sir. -

- Thank you, Albedo, I will return very soon!

The next few days are largely uneventful, after all that's happened in the last few weeks. Albedo really quite misses Zhongli, already used to seeing the man every day, and both him and Kaeya find themselves too busy to hang out much.

He catches Aether around campus a few times, and Aether always beams at him and rushes over to say hello which instantly makes Albedo's day. But the boy is usually busy doing something, always having volunteered to do things like repaint fences or help carry materials, so he can't ever talk for long.

But at the least, they have their texting correspondence, at random times throughout the day and consistently every night without fail which always has Albedo falling asleep with a smile on his face.

'Why are you always volunteering to do things?' Albedo messages him this morning while he is doing some reading in the library, and like always Aether immediately replies.

- oiiiiii is that supposed to be a jab???

No. I don't even know how that would be a...jab? -

- oh! well
- i guess i jus like it! it feels rlly good to be helpful and i like being busy. life feels a bit boring otherwise
- also i guess im a bit...lonely? hahha i just miss my sister a lot and xiao isnt alw available so volunteering for things where i can meet new people is nice

I see. -
I apologise if this is a touchy subject. -

- nono its not dw!!

If it is my place to say this, -
I am also here. In case you do not want to be alone. -

- awwwh albedo that is so sweet of you <3 but i think dr artist is prolly far more busy than me!
- im sure we'll get to hang out soon

Albedo isn't always so well-versed in social interaction, but he knows what that means. Aether is only saying that to be nice, but in reality they probably won't meet up at all because Aether will have better things to do and better people to be with, and Albedo isn't usually the type to initiate anything.

Nevertheless, he paints on a bittersweet smile as he types back, 'Of course.'

He's about to turn his phone off, but then Aether sends an alarmingly quick number of messages.

- I MEAN IT!! I RLLY MEAN IT!
- WE GOTTA HANG OUT OK!!
- i rlly like being w you ANDDD i wanna get to kno you more )))):
- promise me we'll hang out?

Albedo's smile turns into a real one as he quietly chuckles to himself, making the people on the next table stare. Aether is such a wonderful enigma.

Very well. -

- YAY!!! <3

Albedo finally tucks his phone away and gathers his things so he can head off to the main building. He has a class to teach today and that's always a nice thing but right now he's suffering from a great bout of sleep deprivation and the bags under his eyes are probably terrible. At least Aether has lifted his spirits a little.

He's not actually a teaching assistant anymore, even though everyone refers to him as a TA, but he guesses that sounds a lot nicer than the abbreviation of graduate student instructor (GSI...sounds like some sort of tracking system). He had been a TA back when he began studying for his master's degree, assisting Professor Zhongli and Professor Hu Tao, and he guesses the title just stuck. But now he's had a whole course to himself for a good three years and it's extremely rewarding being in charge of a class, seeing them through the year and getting the grades they deserve. It's also quite nice getting paid, of course.

But if Albedo ever has to hear someone call him 'sexy TA Mr Albedo' out loud, he really might pass clean away.

"Morning, class," Albedo calls when he walks into the room, setting down his satchel and getting out what he needs. He gets a loud reflexive reply from someone before someone else tells them to shut up, which is amusing. "It's nice to see you all again."

Albedo turns around to send a smile to the students, but he freezes when his eyes instantly catch a flash of gold. It's only a split-second, but he swears he sees familiar aureate eyes widen at the sight of him and a swish of sunlight hair on the back row - then they're gone.

What on earth.

"U-Um, let's begin, shall we?" Albedo says shakily before clearing his throat, tipping his glasses down his head so they rest on his nose. He frowns to himself as he goes to write on the board, shaking his head. Had he seriously just hallucinated Aether? Is Albedo really that sleep-deprived? It was hazy to see without his glasses, but it was definitely Aether's gold, Aether's starshine aura, and Albedo is honestly about to smack his head against the wall.

He needs to get a grip. He's been fascinated by things before but not to the point that he starts seeing them everywhere.

He lets out a soft sigh and shakes the thought out of his head so he can throw himself into lecturing. The class goes as planned, uneventful, and teaching always calms Albedo down because ultimately it's just another way to talk extensively about an interest of his. It feels quite liberating, knowing that a whole room is listening to him, taking in his words and giving him their undivided attention. How perpendicular to Albedo's social life.

He hands out an assignment at the end of the class, then nods at the students as they file out. A few stay behind to ask questions and Albedo answers to the best of his ability.

"Your voice is really nice, sir," one boy tells him in awe, and Albedo rolls his eyes good-heartedly as he points out with a smile, "This isn't a question, Xingqiu."

"But I'm serious!" Xingqiu insists. "If I ever wanted someone to narrate my stories, I'd want their voice to be like yours."

"Oh? You write?" Albedo asks in interest, always finding it wonderful when STEM students have an artistic pastime, and Xingqiu beams as he nods.

"Yep! Just on the side, I guess...but it's really fun."

"That's a lovely hobby. Actually, I'm not sure about narration, but I have always wanted to illustrate...a book..."

Albedo trails off when in the corner of his eye, he sees gold again. He squints because he doesn't quite believe his eyes, but it's not a hallucination this time - a golden flower seriously just crawled out from under the desks at the back row and is currently trying to creep down the stairs with their back hunched. "I'm...very sorry, Xingqiu, but can we continue this conversation another time?"

"Yeah, 'course! Bye, sir!" Xingqiu says brightly, waving as he leaves, and Albedo smiles after him. "Oh, hey Aether-"

"Hi, Qiu- I mean, shhh!" Aether hisses, making Xingqiu blink confusedly, and Aether carefully looks back over his shoulder. To where Albedo is standing there with crossed arms and a raised eyebrow, wondering why the hell Aether is trying to creep out of his class like some criminal.

Aether, finally giving up, slowly straightens up and laughs nervously. "Heyyy, Albedo...!"

"Come here, Aether," Albedo says with a frown, wanting an explanation for whatever is going on. Aether hurries over with an ashamed look on his face as he clasps his hands behind his back.

"Okay, Albedo, listen, I swear this is a really funny story."

"I am listening."

"So I got to this class pretty early, so I sat in the back and just kinda waited. Then I was getting confused 'cause everyone who was coming in weren't usually who were in this class but I didn't think much of it. Then, lo and behold, you came in," Aether gasps with wide eyes, pointing at Albedo who almost cracks a smile. Aether is as expressive as ever, it seems. "And I was like WHAT?! Albedo teaches Geography? What the hell, is there anything he can't do? Then the guy next to me pulls out a Chemistry textbook and I'm like woah, wait. That's when it first hits me that I might actually be in the wrong class. I'm about to check my phone, but I'm still kinda staring at you, then you turn around and it looks like you're looking at me so I FREAK OUT and hide under the table. Then I check my phone and haha...my class was actually in two hours...isn't that so funny...!"

Albedo actually can't believe his ears. He has to steel himself against the table, waving a confused hand about as he asks, "Hold on, so - you were hiding under the desk? For the entire lecture?"

"Kind of! I peeked out for most of it though 'cause I wanted to see cool Dr Artist in action," Aether admits, both teasing and sheepish. "I was all like 'go, Albedo, go, wow I understand nothing but you are so smart!' And woah, glasses. I definitely see the sex appeal, I do."

"You ramble horribly when you're nervous," Albedo says in disbelief, head still spinning, and Aether rubs the back of his neck shyly. "My goodness, Aether, I thought I was hallucinating when I saw you at the start of the lesson. Are you alright?"

"It was a little cramped but I'm fine," Aether shrugs, stretching out and Albedo pointedly has to look away when the boy's crop top rides up. "Ah, I really am sorry for crashing your class, though..."

"No, no, it was probably more of a problem for you. Why didn't you just leave, you strange, strange person? I'm telling you, people who aren't interested in this kind of thing definitely don't want to be lectured about it," Albedo snorts, but Aether just grins, shaking his head.

"Nah. I could listen to your voice and see you be cool, so I didn't mind at all!"

Far too sweet, as always. Albedo shakes his head fondly before slinging his satchel over his shoulder. "Let me walk you out."

Albedo feels embarrassingly happy to be walking with Aether as they leave the main building. They haven't been able to do this, just walk around campus together, and they probably won't be able to again since Aether has a very different schedule to him as an undergraduate student but it's still...nice.

"I'll probably just wait here, since my class is pretty soon," Aether says bashfully when they find a bench, and Albedo nods, trying not to visibly wilt a little from having to leave Aether so soon. "Thanks for walking with me. You got anything fun going on today?"

Albedo thinks back to today's schedule, and immediately his face sours badly enough for Aether to burst into laughter at the sight of it. "O-Oh man, so there's something...not fun?"

"There is a sort of garden party I need to attend in Dr Zhongli's stead this afternoon," Albedo sighs. "But goodness, I feel terrible for saying this but these kinds of gatherings are always so boring. I never personally know anyone, and everyone talks in such length but what's worse is for the most part they don't even seem even mildly interested in what they're talking about, like it's just an extension of their work day, or they just seem overtly haughty. I feel like I would rather be buried alive than listen to an arrogant rich man talk about botanical plants. And do not even get me started on the refreshments. They don't ever serve anything sweet which should be a crime, Aether, a crime." 

"HA! Hearing you trash-talk is the best thing ever," Aether giggles, and Albedo is sincerely glad he's here because this man is the only thing who could raise his spirits under these circumstances. "Aw, I'm sure it won't be so bad! Just think positive! And if you ever get so mind-numbingly bored that you wanna die, I'm only a message away!"

That's a sweet offer. Aether's adorable positivity is very contagious, and for a moment, Albedo thinks that maybe the gathering won't be so bad after all.

The positivity was only a phase. The gathering is more than bad. It is terrible, and Albedo has had so much champagne just so he can feel something to the point that he's starting to believe that it's non-alcoholic.

Well, Albedo thinks when he sees the little card next to the drinks that prove his theory, this is officially the worst day of my life.

He tried his best to engage with people when he first arrived here, because that's what Dr Zhongli would want him to do, but every second has been true torture. Albedo already finds social interaction a hassle but with people more than twice his age who think they're the smartest and most experienced beings in the world (which might actually be true but they don't have to ACT like it), a hassle turns into a full on catch-22.

Every now and then he might find someone who is pleasant to converse with, but it's simply not worth it. It all gets too much when a man wearing a monocle tries to correct him on the usage of the word 'cuvette' which has Albedo two seconds away from saying something inappropriate along the lines of 'say one more fanciful word and I'll shove a cuvette up your-'

Albedo is dutifully forced to fall back on his trusty blue steed in these kinds of situations.

KAEYA GET ME OUT OF HERE. -

- oho almost two hours?? i applaud u!

I tried my best because Dr Zhongli wanted me to be here but NO MORE. I need cake. Now. -

- awe poor bby </3 dont u worry ur saviour is coming!
- im a lil busy rn im at a mixer thing w mona n lov of ur life aether <3 but ill see if jean or lisa is free ok? if not then ill still come bc i love ur bitchass

THANK YOU SO MUCH. I will buy you cake. -

- not everyone loves cake as much as u do darling~

Albedo feels significantly happier knowing that he's going to be rescued, and even sends the closest person to him a smile that has them flushing. He even happily sips some more of the non-alcoholic alcohol from hell, and silently awaits his saviour while listening to the mild orchestra music and the loud revving of a motorbike.

Hold on. Motorbike?

"So sorry, coming through!" a loud voice calls, sounding far more cheerful than apologetic, and Albedo watches in slight terror and a whole lot of wonder as gold and black flashes into his vision. A beautiful motorcycle drives right into the fucking garden, making the guests scatter and gasp in disdain which makes Albedo want to laugh, but all he can think about is how this isn't any motorcycle.

It's that gorgeous one he was so taken by a few weeks ago. The one he wanted to draw.

And sitting atop of it is someone clad in a just as gorgeous black crop leather jacket, gold heels set firmly on the pedals as the motorcycle comes to a stop in the middle of the garden. A familiar sunlight braid swishes over the mysterious biker's shoulder, before they bring their gloved hands up to take their helmet off.

And Albedo's heart too while they're at it.

"So truly sorry for coming in like this!" Aether cries in a peculiarly posh voice, cheeks flushed and expression troubled as he clasps his hands together in front of his chest and Albedo wonders what on earth he's doing. "I am afraid our house is flooding as we speak, and my darling husband is the only one who can fix our bathroom!"

...what.

Albedo finally gets some feeling into his limbs and he slowly walks over, cautious as he asks, "Aether...why...what are you-"

Aether brightens up at the sight of him before he climbs off the motorcycle and runs towards Albedo, throwing himself forward to wrap his arms around Albedo's shoulders. "Husband!"

WHAT.

Albedo can only splutter nonsense for a moment, hands hovering awkwardly in the air as Aether hugs him so warmly that Albedo forgets how to breathe. He wants to hug back - gods, he wants to hug back so much - but his heart is beating so fast, threatening to tear his chest apart, and he might just faint when Aether whispers in his ear, "I'm here to save you."

Albedo watches with an open mouth when Aether pulls back to wink at him, then he shoves the helmet onto Albedo's head before grabbing Albedo's hand and running back to his motorbike. Aether's posh voice returns when he waves at all the gaping people around them and says, "Have a stellar time, ladies and gentlemen! Albedo, get on now!"

"A-Ah, yes," Albedo says dizzily, though he's not quite sure how he would quite do that, until he sees Aether already on the motorbike and patting the space behind him. Oh gods, is- is that where he's supposed to sit?

Well, it's not like he can be too picky...

"Hold on!" Aether yells brightly when Albedo finally gets on, trying to keep as much distance between them as possible. Only to get almost thrown right off when Aether revs the engine and soars right out the place.

"H-Hold on to what?!"

"To me! My waist!"

Albedo makes a pretty undignified noise at that answer because he can make a very long list of reasons as to why that would not be a good idea, the foremost being that Aether is a beautiful fiend who only ever wears cropped clothing so his waist is bare. But then there is a significant lurch in the ride, and all of Albedo's sense is thrown out the window as he leans close and wraps his arms tight around Aether's torso.

"There we go!" Aether laughs, sounding breathless.

Albedo is feeling so many sensations right now. Wind whipping through his clothes, probably ruining his perfectly-pressed suit (and good riddance). Colours and lights flashing past his eyes as they race through the streets. The warmth of Aether's dastardly soft skin against his hands, as well as Aether's body moving against him whenever he laughs. Albedo doesn't know why he has been able to experience something this incredible - has no clue if this might not just be a beautiful daydream - but if this really is a dream, then there's nothing to lose if he presses a little closer and rests his chin on Aether's shoulder as he drinks in the swirling colours around them.

Aether turns his head back for a moment to look at him, cheeks a wild pink and smile bright with playful happiness, and Albedo thinks he has never looked more beautiful.

Sadly the fairytale feeling comes to an end when Albedo's stomach full of bad champagne decides to turn over for a moment, and they have to take a pit-stop.

"You alright?" Aether asks amusedly when he joins Albedo who is lying down on grass, mind so nonsensically full of thoughts that it might as well be blank. Albedo turns his head to nod at Aether who lies down next to him. "That's good."

"What on earth was that stunt earlier?" Albedo asks, though he doesn't mean to be scathing in the slightest. He's more awed than anything. And now Aether has the gall to look shy as he scratches his cheek. 

"Well, I was with Kaeya when he got your texts, and I was all like 'ooh I'll go!' And when Kaeya told me that you two usually make up some sort of excuse to get out of these things, 'cause you don't wanna offend anyone, right? I thought very hard," Aether says, still looking bashful but also quite proud of himself. "I wanted to do something that would cheer you up because I knew you'd be really bored. And I remembered you told me that the people at these things are usually all haughty and richie so I thought, hey, I'm probably never gonna see any of these people again so why not try and act all posh like them?"

Then Aether giggles, sounding so happy that Albedo feels his heart about to burst. "And I've always wanted to crash a party by just driving in with my motorcycle, like in movies! I never thought I'd get an opportunity but wow, that was perfect."

"You are perfect," Albedo says almost desperately, because he really needs Aether to know just how incredible he is, how he makes Albedo's chest feel so warm and how he surprises him every day in the most colourful of ways when they haven't known each other that long.

Aether's smile drops as his eyes widen, face burning red. "U-Uh-"

"Aether, I love motorcycles," Albedo continues earnestly, on a roll. "They are one of my most favourite things to draw, they are aesthetic masterpieces. And I saw your motorcycle last week and adored it, it is gorgeous and I really wanted to draw it. And now I find out that its owner is even more gorgeous and they allowed me to ride on the wonderful thing as part of cheering me up? I have no clue how this day could get any better."

Aether's smile is back now, everlastingly happy and shy. "I'm really glad...I was thinking about you earlier, since I saw how upset you were about the party thing. So I'm glad I got a chance to save you from boredom!"

"You really did, gods. I was about to perish like days-old fruit!" Albedo complains, starfishing out on the grass petulantly, before blushing a little when he sees Aether's bemused look. "A-Ah, apologies...I get a little whiney after gatherings like these."

"That's a funny thing to be self-aware of," Aether teases, before suddenly perking up. "Oh, I think I've got something that can remedy that!"

Aether gets up and rushes back to his motorcycle, and Albedo lies there in wait, closing his eyes and breathing in the serene fresh air. He actually might be moments away from falling asleep until something soft touches his cheek and a wonderful smell reaches his nose. "Open wide!"

Albedo slowly blinks his eyes open, and sees a forkful of cake so close to his face that he almost goes cross-eyed looking at it. He looks behind it to see a whole mini round cake sitting in a little box on Aether's lap, then finally he looks up to see Aether grinning down at him. "You gonna eat it?"

"You got me cake," Albedo breathes, so touched that he has to clutch his chest, and Aether nods proudly.

"You seemed very insistent about wanting some so I picked some up from a nearby bakery."

"...how is it possible for someone perfect to become even more per-"

"Stop flirting and eat!" Aether orders, ears red as he shoves the fork into Albedo's mouth, and Albedo (who will admit that maybe he is flirting a little bit now) really doesn't need to be told twice. He sits up and happily lets Aether feed him, oblivious to the endeared way Aether is looking at him. "Is it good?"

"Yes. You should try some," Albedo decides, taking the fork from Aether so he can dig up some cake and bring some to Aether's pretty lips. Aether turns pink, but he delicately opens his mouth, and Albedo feels like a damn teenager when he gently feeds Aether while thinking, would- would this be an indirect kiss?

"Oh!" Aether says in surprise, covering his mouth as his eyes sparkle. "It's really good!"

"Have more," Albedo insists, feeling enamoured watching Aether eat. He now understands why Kaeya watches those eating compilations of those celebrities he's a fan of. "I don't mind sharing."

"Awe, but I got it for you."

"No matter."

"Then, thank you! Probably should've got two forks," Aether chuckles, but they manage between them, slightly awkward at first but it gets easier as they just settle with Aether keeping the fork and feeding Albedo when he wants some - though Aether is a fiend (as always) who keeps getting icing on Albedo's face and howls in laughter whenever Albedo gives him a deadpan stare in return.

Now that he's calmed down a bit, Albedo starts becoming a little more aware of their proximity. Their knees are touching, foreheads too as they lean closer because of the cake, and Albedo's memory ruthlessly reminds him of the sudden hug Aether gave him back at the garden party which instantly makes his chest tighten and skin tingle with memory of the feeling. Both Kaeya and Klee have made jokes about how touch-starved Albedo is, since he always finds it hard to pry away when either of them has an arm around his shoulder or holds his hand, but this is the first time that he actually thinks they might be right.

"Aether," Albedo begins warily when they've finished the cake, and Aether blinks pretty golden eyes at him.

"Yeah?"

"I...I know that you only did it earlier to keep the pretence. But, if you would like to, would you ever-"

"Call you 'husband' again?" Aether teases and Albedo flushes bright red as he barely manages to get out a strangled, "No!"

Though that had been quite nice, too...

"Hehe, I'm just kidding! What is it?"

Albedo looks down, somewhat nervous. It's really quite rare for him to get nervous with his blunt and unassuming nature, but he just...worries what would happen if Aether says no to his request.

"When you hugged me. I think you're the first person to have hugged me in a very long time, other than Klee," Albedo says quietly. He has to look away when Aether's smile fades, expression turning surprised. "It- it was very warm. I liked it a lot. Would you ever do it again?"

There's a short torturous moment of silence that has Albedo wanting to curl up into a ball. But then Aether's face suddenly crumbles, sending Albedo headirst into panic. "Wait- Ae-"

"ALBEDO!" Aether practically wails, and Albedo blinks at the loud reply before almost falling back onto the grass when Aether basically jumps at him and squeezes him so tight. "Why the hell are you so cute?! Of course I'll hug you sometimes, you dork, that's what friends do!"

Friends. Yes, they definitely are friends by now, right? Two and a half weeks of text correspondence, scattered hellos, and two very significant meetings has to stand for some sort of relationship. That makes Albedo smile, because somehow he's befriended this beautiful golden flower who is far out of his league. What an achievement.

"Thank you," Albedo murmurs, dropping his face into Aether's shoulder as he locks his arms around Aether's waist, hugging him back just as tight. Aether hums happily, nudging his head against Albedo's, before he says a pensive, "You know, your honesty is really really nice. It makes it super easy to get closer to you."

"I think you're the first person to ever say that. People tend to find my candour quite standoffish," Albedo says because it's true, he has to admit, and that's never been something he's particularly minded. But then Aether pulls back just enough to beam at him.

"Yeah, well, I got lucky because you're interested in me! So your honesty towards me is just very sweet things or very funny things, even if sometimes you look at me like you wanna experiment on me," Aether chuckles, and now Albedo feels a little bad.

"Apologies...I should really try and control that..."

"Are you seriously admitting that you want to experiment on me?!" Aether squawks, and Albedo seizes up.

"O-Only ethically, I swear!"

"I'm not sure what that means but I still don't like it," Aether says with narrowed eyes, but he falls over himself giggling when Albedo hangs his head like a kicked puppy. "Noooo, I'm sorry, I'm sorry, don't be sad! I'm still kidding!"

"Oh," Albedo sighs, relieved. "Yet, I am still sorry. I just find you so utterly fascinating, whether because of your beauty or your antics. You thrill me every day."

"O-Oh wow. Imagine being told that you thrill someone," Aether says in awe, ears dashed pink. "You...gods, you really make me feel so good about myself, Albedo. It's such a new feeling..."

"As you deserve," Albedo says solemnly, nodding with all the grave pride of a knight who has done his duty (even though Aether is the one who reminds him of a knight, with his valiant urges to help and save).

Aether shoves him out of embarrassment before hiding his face in his arms, yelping, "Enough, I've reached my daily limit!" and Albedo finds himself laughing. Aether peeks out of his arms to watch him when he does that, and mumbles something that Albedo can't hear.

They spend the best part of the hour talking about not very intelligent things, but unlike with any of the people at the gathering (also known as the type of people that Albedo is apparently meant to get along with considering his career path), Albedo hangs on to every one of Aether's words. Yes, maybe he's staring more than he should at Aether's vibrant expressions and hand gestures, but he's still listening, because Aether is interesting and that makes everything he says just as so.

"How was your Geography class?" Albedo asks gently when there's a small lull in the conversation where they finally don't know what to say, because Albedo doesn't want to go home just yet. Not when he isn't sure when he will get to be with Aether like this again.

He smiles when Aether's aureate eyes twinkle again like they do whenever he has something to say, and he launches into another anecdote spun to sound like a delightful tale.

Albedo listens to him with his heart on his sleeve, while wondering if he'll be able to ask Aether if he can draw him with his motorcycle one day. His favourite thing to draw, along with his favourite person to draw?

What a dream.

Chapter Text

Sorry Kaeya, can't come to our usual morning tea today. Busy. -

- )))):
- we have morning tea ONCE A FORTNIGHT and yet u cancel so often
- im starting to think you don't like me >.>

Oh my, heaven forbid anyone doesn't like His Highness Kaeya Alberich himself. -

- ooooooh good reply <3
- okok go but make it up to me by buying me drinks tonite!
- why r u busy anyway?

Zhongli had asked Albedo if he could meet him at the airport on the day of his and Xiao's return from their trip, which is why Albedo is busy. But according to Xiao who crashed the phone call, Aether is also coming.

"But Aether doesn't have a car, Xiao. We can't all get on a motorcycle," Zhongli had pointed out in confusion, and Xiao was silent for a long moment before he sighed, "Fine, your nerd friend can come too. Aether just wanted to pick me up because he misses me."

"That's adorable," Zhongli cooed, and Albedo agreed. "Alright, then Aether and Albedo can come here together! Albedo, bring your car if that's alright. Cannot wait to catch up!" 

"Of course, sir."

So that's why Albedo is outside a dorm complex, having located the window of Aether's room as per Xiao's directions, and he's just sitting there in his car awkwardly. He remembers being in these dorms back when he was an undergrad and he knows he can't get into the complex without a key card or a code. So maybe he can just wait until Aether comes outside?

But waiting five minutes turns into ten, then fifteen, then an alarming half an hour. Albedo is lucky he got here too early, subconsciously eager to see Aether, but now he is concerned. He could message Aether but he only has his Instagram - it really is quite strange that they don't have each other's numbers yet - and he can't call Zhongli and Xiao to do so since they might still be on their flight...

And so, Albedo has to resort to a very uncouth method. Throwing rocks he finds on the ground at Aether's third floor window.

It takes a moment, during which Albedo feels rather stupid, but he sighs in relief when he sees a light turn on. Then the window is weakly pushed open, and Albedo's heart leaps into his throat when he sees a sleepy-looking Aether peering down at him, dinosaur pyjamas on as his sunlight hair splays over his shoulders, wispy and light.

This is the best day of Albedo's life.

"Albedo...?" Aether calls down tiredly, rubbing at his eyes. "Is there a reason you're throwing rocks at my window like some suitor from the 80s...?"

"Just why are you so beautiful?" Albedo blurts out, voice hoarse, but luckily Aether hadn't seemed to have heard him as he tilts his head to the side in question. Albedo clears his throat, then says louder, "Aether, did you remember to set an alarm? We're going to pick up Xiao and Dr Zhongli."

Aether seems to instantly wake up at that, eyes growing wide. "Wai- wha- we're going together?!"

Albedo blinks. Oh dear. "Had neither of them told you about this? I am so sorry, I would have messaged you last night but I fell asleep the instant I got home."

"Oh - no, it's alright! Do you miss Zhongli like I miss Xiao?" Aether asks with a sweet smile, and Albedo does miss Zhongli, but he says instead, "I just have a car. You don't."

Aether blinks. "Woah. You're right."

Aether then disappears for a moment, before he returns with a washed face and his hair pulled into a hasty but still gorgeous bun. "Hold on, I'll be down soon!"

Albedo nods, and leans against the hood of his car as he waits. He receives a text from Kaeya reading 'WTF WHY DIDN'T U TAKE ME TOO IVE BEEN HAVING DADDY ZHONGLI WITHDRAWAL' which makes Albedo want to retch. Then he hears the hurried click-clack of heeled boots and he looks up to see Aether jogging towards him, wrapped up in a (cropped, of course) fluffy jumper, dark jeans, and a wonderful smile. "Hey!"

"Hello," Albedo greets back warmly, trying not to jump when Aether greets him with a hug when he gets close enough. Aether has a tendency to do that whenever they see each other now, and it's probably the most casual thing for him while Albedo has to steel himself every time. Though one time Aether had done it in front of Kaeya who outright gasped.

"You'll hug Aether and not me?!" Kaeya yelped once Aether had run back to whatever he was doing, and Albedo had blinked, very confused.

"What? But- but I thought we never hug because you don't like hugs...? I have never seen you hug anyone."

When Kaeya is offended, he looks like a particularly ruffled peacock. "I thought we never hug because you don't like hugs! You ever think I've seen your antisocial ass hug anyone either?!"

That led to Albedo and Kaeya fiercely hugging for a good five minutes. It was actually really quite nice, Albedo felt very warm in all of Kaeya's familiarity (and tallness).

"Really, what is it with you and cropped clothing?" Albedo asks when they pull away, his hands still on Aether's hips as he eyes the jumper. "Does your stomach not get cold?"

Aether laughs like Albedo's said the funniest thing ever, but Albedo wants to tell him that he's being very serious. The things Aether wears always takes Albedo's breath away, but he does sometimes feel cold himself just looking at the boy (and Albedo grew up in Dragonspine, he usually barely feels the cold!).

"Not really! I tried one on when I was sixteen and never looked back. They make me feel powerful and I don't even know why?" Aether says pensively, and Albedo thinks that's a sweet reason. "And it was a plus that I got a lot of looks from cute boys when I first wore one, hehe."

"You still do," Albedo corrects him while they get into his car and Aether just giggles.

"Oh man, sorry if we'll be late. I was planning to just speed there on my motorbike nearer the time, but I guess you're the organised type who likes to get places early?" Aether wonders, and Albedo almost bursts into laughter at the assumption.

"Not in the slightest. I tend to get very absorbed in something, including sleep whenever I actually do sleep, and forget where I'm supposed to be rather often. I only got here early because I was excited to see you."

"O-Oh," Aether says in surprise, ears turning red. Then he laughs quietly. "I'm kinda jealous of you, you know. The way you can say things like that so easily."

"I have better things to think about than repercussions to my words," Albedo shrugs. "Though I do try my best not to say anything mean."

Aether nods. "Yeah. I think you're actually really kind. You say you don't understand why I'm helping people all the time but I see you help people too."

Albedo furrows his eyebrows. "Well. It would be inefficient to turn away people who could use my knowledge."

"But inefficient for who? Clearly not you, because it just takes up your time," Aether says, voice bordering on teasing though Albedo is not sure why.

"For the other person, mostly. I will help them get what they need a lot faster, and that also gives me a sense of satisfaction."

"See!" Aether cheers, hugging Albedo's arm and Albedo doesn't have the heart to tell him that he needs that to drive. "Kind!"

Albedo can't in good conscience agree when there are people (like the boy right next to him) who are a million times kinder, but he nods to appease Aether who gives him the most adorable sleepy beam.

"Well, for the record, I would've been excited to see you too...if I knew you were...coming..."

Albedo watches as Aether nuzzles slightly into his arm, starting to fall asleep again against him. Albedo for some bizarre reason finds himself wanting to cry a little from the sweet sight (is this a normal reaction?), eyes soft as he watches Aether snore into his shoulder. He wants to let Aether keep his arm forever, or at least wrap him up in ten blankets - but they have somewhere to be.

Albedo smiles, telling him, "That's nice to know," before he tenderly pushes Aether back in his seat and lets him sleep for the drive.

"Aether?" Albedo says quietly when they arrive at the airport. "We're here."

Aether hums softly, but he still doesn't wake up. He looks so sweet with his cheek squished against the back of his seat and Albedo's own cheeks hurt from smiling. He reaches out to undo Aether's seatbelt and shake the boy slightly. "Aether, wake up, honey."

Albedo then pauses. Ah. He'd subconsciously used a pet name he usually uses for Klee. Calling Aether honey is a completely different ordeal, though, and he turns pink when Aether slowly blinks his golden eyes open, a sleepy smile spilling over his face as he asks a raspy, "Did you just call me 'honey'?"

"No. Yes. Maybe," Albedo stammers, and Aether giggles, reaching out to wind his arms around Albedo's neck which does not help Albedo's wildly beating heart.

"Carry me there?"

"I-I think Xiao might murder me if I do that."

"Yeah, probably," Aether snickers as he lets go of Albedo, leaving him feeling significantly colder. "Alright, let's go!"

The airport is busy and bustling when they go in, but it's very easy to spot Zhongli and Xiao who stick out like sore thumbs wherever they go. Xiao looks like some sort of idol with his black cap and mask as he crosses his arms and stares down at his phone, and Zhongli stands there tall as ever with a refined bronze suit on and quite out-of-place sunglasses. Aether gasps at the sight of them.

"XIAO!" Aether yells, and Xiao immediately looks up before swiftly pocketing his phone, and Albedo watches in wonder as Aether bounds over like the golden retriever he is and leaps at Xiao who catches him effortlessly. Albedo goes over to Zhongli who is smiling at the two kids ferociously squeezing the life out of each other. Albedo is just awed by how Xiao still looks perpetually cross as always but now in a loving kind of way.

"My back would probably go out if someone tried to hug me like that. Such youth," Zhongli sighs, then he smiles at Albedo. "Lovely to see you again, Albedo! I thought about you often, I hoped you were doing alright."

Imagine the Dr Zhongli admitting to thinking about you often. Albedo can't believe this is the kind of life he's living. "Y-Yes, me too. Did you have a nice time?"

"Indeed. It was very relaxing, and it has been a while since I've been to Snezhnaya. I was able to meet up with an old friend."

"Who's also like his sugar daddy apparently with how much he paid for everything Zhongli wanted," Xiao scoffs as him and Aether come over, still attached to the hip, and Zhongli chuckles.

"Xiao taught me about that term. It's very amusing."

"He's the guy who paid for my car to come back with some expensive-ass service because Zhongli's picky as heck."

"I just prefer to be comfortable," Zhongli frowns, looking put-out by the insult, but he's back in a good mood again when Aether goes to greet him with a brief hug. "Nice to see you too, Aether."

Watching his number one role model and number one muse interact is a lot for Albedo's heart, so he decides to stand next to Xiao while the other two talk, both of them silent as they watch the people rushing through the airport.

"Aether told me he ambushed your garden party in literally the weirdest way ever," Xiao starts, voice as rough as ever but there is no malice. "Sorry about him. He's a dork."

Albedo smiles. "No need for apologies. He saved me from boredom that day, I definitely did not want to be at that party."

"Thought you'd like hanging out with other nerds."

"You would think that would be the case," Albedo snorts, a little bitterly. "But it's quite the contrary. I am not a people person, and these gatherings revolve around social skills. I like people like Aether, and Dr Zhongli too. Eccentric interesting people who make the world more colourful. But more importantly, people who are easy to talk to."

"Ugh. I'm relating to one of Zhongli's nerd friends. Gross," Xiao mutters, but it's light-hearted, and Albedo and him even share a semblance of a smile.

"Should we be off?" Zhongli asks, and the others nod in reply, Aether taking Xiao's hand and marching off while brightly asking Xiao how his trip was with Zhongli and Albedo following them fondly. Aether bounds like a big golden retriever, meanwhile Xiao walks slow as always. Yet Albedo can be observant when he wants to be, and he notices that Xiao's movements are heavy like someone who has years of burden weighing on them, but also surprisingly fluid and elegant instead of clunky. Like a dancer. Or a martial artist?

Albedo truly has been meeting very interesting people recently.

"Buy Kaeya tea when you next see him. I had to ditch meeting with him to pick you up," Albedo tells Zhongli before yawning (which isn't a great sign when he's about to drive three other people but gods is he sleepy...), and Zhongli frowns worriedly.

"Oh dear, is that so? Of course I would love to buy him tea. Though, ah, maybe that would not be a good idea...didn't you tell me he was...interested in me? For a little more than friendship?"

Albedo snorts. "I don't think I told you that. You probably just noticed it from a mile away."

"Maybe," Zhongli says amusedly, though his tone is slightly heavy. "I have no idea why, however. He is a very charming and eligible bachelor, I am sure he has people falling at his feet every day."

"He does but he keeps going on about how he's 'only got eyes for you'," Albedo says, rolling his own eyes. He expects Zhongli to laugh in reply but he ends up getting no reply at all, and he turns to see Zhongli looking deep in thought, with the slightest of flushes on the tips of his ears. "Doctor?"

Zhongli blinks, snapping out of his reverie. "A-Ah, apologies. It seems I have not thought about the prospect of romantic love for a very long time. It feels rather...foreign to me now. I accepted long ago that I would most likely not experience it again and that would be alright with me, but now I have been reminded of the feeling..."

Albedo remembers with a start that Zhongli was once married many years ago. Albedo remembers being a teenager and feeling so upset reading a biography about Zhongli and his late wife was mentioned, with pictures of them working together in their home lab and looking so happy with each other. Zhongli would call her his best friend and soulmate - and he said those same words again in a statement to the press before he isolated himself for five years after he lost her while she was working on one of her very own inventions.

"Do you want me to tell Kaeya to knock it off? Just say the word," Albedo asks firmly, already prepared to fight the world when he sees Zhongli's eyes glass over. But Zhongli gives him a gentle smile.

"No need. I am sure he does not have any sincere feelings for me anyway, so it does not matter."

Albedo agrees with that, so him and Zhongli keep moving, pace quickening when they hear Xiao call out to them from outside the airport doors, "HURRY THE HELL UP, NERDS." 

"How was the trip here? Did you two have a nice time?" Zhongli asks Albedo when they're eventually on the road, Xiao and Aether talking in the back, and for some reason Zhongli is the one driving. Albedo can't even remember giving Zhongli his car keys.

Albedo gives Zhongli a deadpan look. "Are you trying to matchmake us again."

"Well, it seems like I don't need to. Xiao told me about Aether 'saving' you from last week's garden social."

Albedo wilts under Zhongli's pointed look. "I'm really sorry, Dr Zhongli...you- you know I am not great with these things..."

"Yes, I do," Zhongli sighs. Nevertheless, he sends Albedo a reassuring smile. "I am not upset. But you see, Albedo, I told you to go in my stead because I believe attending these gatherings will be good for you. The people there will be people you'll most probably come across frequently in your line of work, and I want them to see you the way I do. I already talk about you a lot so a number of people have been wanting to get to know you better. It is not quite a secret that it's rather difficult to speak to you on a level more personal than business." 

Now Albedo feels terrible. Of course Zhongli only told him to go to look out for him. "I...I'm really sorry, sir-"

"Don't apologise to me, dear boy, you are twenty-three, adult enough to make your own choices and it's not your fault if these gatherings do not interest you-"

"Wait, you're TWENTY-THREE and you're getting a PhD?!" Aether yelps from behind them, Xiao whining something about him being too loud.

"Twenty-three isn't a strange age to go for a PhD. I am hoping to finish in the next couple of years but there's a chance I won't actually get it until I'm twenty-six or later," Albedo explains, turning to look at Aether and he really has to try not to laugh at the boy's purely shocked look. Zhongli pipes up, "And Albedo is an absolute genius, after all!"

"Says the man who got his first PhD at eighteen," Albedo rebuts dryly, and Zhongli argues, "You would have earned yours a lot earlier than now if you didn't need to save up money for it. I wish I knew earlier so I could have given you some!" 

Albedo gets ready to argue back because him and Zhongli have quarrelled about this exact thing too many times, but then he notices how now Aether looks even more stressed as he drops their head into his hands.

"Oh my gods, I'm surrounded by smart people..."

"It's okay, you got me. I didn't even make it through high school," Xiao says without an inch of shame, and Aether hugs his arm for comfort.

Albedo feels surprised. As someone who is probably far too educated for his own good and so his lifestyle revolves around that, he's never met a high-school dropout. He must be staring quite obviously because Xiao sends him a glare so fierce that Albedo almost gets shivers, asking in a steely voice, "Is there anything wrong."

"No. Not at all. I just have never met someone who hasn't finished high school," Albedo says and Xiao blinks, glare falling to make way for surprise at Albedo's bluntness. Aether and Zhongli exhange concerned looks through the rear view mirror. "And I like you no less, truly. In fact, you are one of the most interesting people I have met in a long time. It's fascinating."

There's silence in the car for a long moment. Then Aether bursts into bright surprised laughter while Xiao turns so red that he has to cover his face behind his arms. Aether hugs the poor boy's head to his chest, snickering, "Albedo-honesty, critical hit!"

"You can go to as few socials as you like just for that," Zhongli tells Albedo, voice strained with joy, and now Albedo feels a bit burdened as he goes back to facing ahead. The rest of the ride is mostly filled with Aether cooing over Xiao's silent flustering and Albedo sinking further down in his seat every time Zhongli sends him happy looks.

"Gonna hang with Aether for a bit. Don't wait up," Xiao tells Zhongli when they get to the dorms and Aether drags Xiao out of the car. Zhongli nods, calling, "Bye, darling!"

Albedo decides to get out of the car to say his farewells. Xiao still can't quite look at him but he holds out a hand for Albedo to shake (which is very amusing), then Aether gives Albedo another wonderful warm hug. Gosh, Aether has never given him two hugs in one day before. Albedo isn't quite sure if he can handle that.

"I'll text you later," Aether tells him, lips way too close to Albedo's ear as he squeezes Albedo who can only nod, wrapping his arms tightly around Aether. Every time they touch, Albedo never wants to pull away. Yet he knows he must or his heart will probably beat right out of his chest and leave him in a not-so-ideal situation.

When they pull away, Aether gives him a soft smile, his face peculiarly pink for some reason. Whenever Aether blushes, it reminds Albedo of a sunset. Gold and pink coinciding. Beautiful.

"Has anyone ever told you that you have a tiny bit of a staring problem?" Aether teases and Albedo forgets to reply because he is, ironically, too busy staring. (He has been told that before, though.)

"I really need to draw you again sometime soon," Albedo says softly, and the sunset pink spreads more as Aether smiles bigger.

"Yeah? You haven't been drawing me without me knowing lately?"

"I sketch you a lot, but nothing quite like the first time. I will always let you know before I make any other full drawings. I don't wish to make you uncomfortable again."

Aether laughs. "Gosh, you're so sweet. You never made me uncomfortable, Albedo, it was just a bit-"

"Oi, lovebirds, break it up!" Xiao yells at them from the door of the dorm complex, and Aether turns his head to stick his tongue out at Xiao before he beams at Albedo.

"See you later?"

"Of course," Albedo replies, letting go of Aether reluctantly. Aether runs backwards for a little while so they can wave at Albedo before he whales on Xiao and the two disappear into the building. Albedo closes his eyes, takes in a breath, before he goes back to his car and gets in.

Only to have Zhongli giving him the most smug look in the universe.

"Please just drive," Albedo pleads, but Zhongli adamantly shakes his head.

"I had no clue you two have developed a relationship that close. My my, what have I missed these past few days?"

"What do you even mean by 'that close'?"

"Well, hugging for one thing. You jumped when I touched your shoulder once," Zhongli says, and Albedo grimaces. "Then how about staring into each other's eyes and talking in soft whispers without bearing to let go, entirely lost in each other as you forget about the world around you and only see-"

"You- this is subjective speculation. You are making this FAR too unnecessarily romantic," Albedo weakly tries to debate, slumped down so far in his seat out of embarrassment that he's practically horizontal, and that warm booming laughter of Zhongli's reaches his ears. "I just- he is such a delightful person in every way, how- how can I not stare..."

"He stares at you too," Zhongli says, voice slightly sing-song, and Albedo looks down at his hands miserably.

"No, he treats me the same as he treats all his other friends. I am not so delusional to think otherwise."

Zhongli frowns. "Dear boy, don't think like that. I just think it's wonderful that you two even are friends now! Isn't it wonderful?"

A small smile sneaks onto Albedo's face without his permission. "Yes, it's quite wonderful..."

Zhongli smiles, reaching out to ruffle Albedo's hair. Albedo is glad that he's not as jumpy as he used to be because he feels very warm whenever Zhongli does that. Getting hugs from Klee, Kaeya and Aether, head pats from Zhongli, handshakes from Xiao...his life really is quite nice.

"Alright, with that settled, I have so many things to tell you about!"

Albedo lets out a silent sigh of relief at the change of subject, and listens attentively to all of Zhongli's anecdotes as they begin to drive. Zhongli invites him over to his house too and Albedo accepts a little too quickly, definitely wanting to know what his idol's dwelling looks like. ("Really? I've never shown you before?! How awful of me!")

But when they are nearing the house, Zhongli seems to remember something.

"Ah, yes. Albedo, why did some of my acquaintances who were at the garden social tell me to congratulate you on your 'marriage'? And that you are 'lucky to have acquired such a good-looking and devoted spouse'?"

Albedo wants to crawl into a hole. Gods, only now does he realise that even though Aether might never see those people again, Albedo definitely will!

"It's a long story..."

Bonus:

"I now know a high-school dropout," Albedo tells Kaeya when he's lying on the roof of Kaeya's apartment that night staring up at the stars, his head in Kaeya's lap. They had foregone drinks to make up up morning tea because there are days where even Kaeya gets tired sometimes, so they decided not to go out.

Kaeya's hands pause from where they're playing with Albedo's hair. "You didn't know one before?"

"No. Now I worry if the environment I have put myself in is too narrow. I don't even know anyone else who doesn't or didn't go to university..."

"Well, it's not like you to converse with people a lot anyway," Kaeya tells him, and Albedo guesses that's true. "Who is it?"

"Dr Zhongli's ward, Xiao."

"Wait, seriously? One of the probably most educated people in the world is a good father figure to a high-school dropout? Every other Asian parent better take notes," Kaeya scoffs, and Albedo cracks a smile.

"Dr Zhongli's education was also my first thought. I think it's quite lovely how, as you said, one of the most educated people in the world is so obviously proud of Xiao nonetheless. Zhongli definitely thinks Xiao is the best thing since sliced bread."

"Yeah 'cause Dr Zhongli's a sweetheart. Definitely not surprised that he's apparently Dad of the Year too."

"I wish I had a father like that," Albedo sighs, then slams his elbow into Kaeya's gut when the guy teases, "Then I would be your stepdad~"

"I said LIKE him, not ACTUALLY HIM-"

"Ow, okay, okay!" Kaeya wails through laughs, clutching his stomach. "You feisty little chihuahua. Besides, you're the smartest dude like ever. I bet your dad is plenty proud of you."

"I don't have parents, Kaeya."

There's silence for a moment.

One of the reasons Kaeya and Albedo get along so well is because they're both unintentionally mysterious people. Everyone knows them, but no-one actually knows much about them. Any normal person will probably ask questions or feel suspicious when they don't know much about someone, but not them. They don't ask many questions, and don't mind not knowing about each other's pasts. They just like existing in each other's company.

So now Albedo feels worried, that Kaeya won't like that he's revealed something so personal.

But Kaeya just strokes gentle hands through his hair again, saying a quiet, "Me neither. Not anymore."

Albedo holds up a hand and Kaeya takes it, squeezing.

"I used to wonder sometimes, what having parents would be like," Albedo says wistfully. His friend, Alice, is probably the most motherly figure Albedo has ever known but she travels far too often for there to be much of a staple there. There is also one of his many foster parents that he will never forget - he stayed with her for three years in his teens, and she was rather strict, cold. But she showed warmth sometimes, especially when telling Albedo random educative stories about the world around them. She was the smartest person Albedo had ever known and one of the two reasons he wanted to pursue science, the other being Dr Zhongli. She still holds a place in Albedo's heart.

"What kind of things did you think about?"

"Well, would they be proud of me? Would they call me a lot? Tell me to eat on time? Sleep more? Tease me about possible romantic endeavours?"

"I'd have a field day seeing you explain to parents that whatever you and Aether have is somehow not romantic yet," Kaeya snickers, and Albedo snorts, adding, "I'd probably have to say the cliché 'stop, Mom, he's just a friend' at least a hundred times."

Kaeya scoffs in a way that sounds like he's unconvinced, but he doesn't say anything more about it. "How're things going with Aether anyway?"

Albedo smiles serenely at the thought of his golden flower, closing his eyes. "He gets more gorgeous every day. Less intangible, but everlastingly fascinating."

"Do you seriously not hear yourself? You whipped little thing," Kaeya groans, shaking his head in disbelief, and Albedo deadpans, "Stop, Mom, he's just a friend."

Albedo laughs loudly into the quiet night when Kaeya pretends to push him off the roof.

Chapter Text

Hello, Aether. -

- albedo!! <333

How has your day been? -

- good! my sis sent me some macarons omg they taste SO good
- do you want some??

...Maybe some other time... -

- AHHAHAHDAHA YOURE RLLY TRYING SO HARD NOT TO SAY YES ARENT U
- don't u worry my dear dr artist i kno all abt your sweet tooth <3 ill wrap some up and give them to you before your class later!!

That is very kind but you do not need to do that. -

- mhm but i want to!!
- ALSO ALSO I HAVE A QUESTION

Ask away. -

- your art acc pseudonym!! chalk prince~ how fancy and mystique~
- whats up w that?

Oh. No-one has ever outright asked Albedo that before. He has to take a minute to truly think about it and formulate an answer that makes sense.

Well, it was something that one of my foster parents used to call me sometimes. -
She had a fondness for alchemy, though of course she did not practice it, and told me that chalk birthed from soil, and chalk was what once made up man. -
She told me that I seemed like I had an aura of a person who lived long ago. Someone born from chalk, who then breathed life into themselves because no-one else would. A nod to how I did not have parents and struggled independently growing up. -
She would call me Kreideprinz, because I should be who the other people of this world made of chalk should look up to. -
I don't quite agree with her words, but I use the pseudonym for her, and every now and then I will post chalk drawings. -

Albedo finds his hands shaking a little by the time he's finished typing. Goodness. He had not been aware that speaking of this topic makes him feel so strongly, but he guesses he hasn't ever done so before.

Ah. Sorry for the lengthy reply . -

- ...WOAH
- that was WILD albedo WOW nono don't be sorry that was rlly cool to read!
- what your foster parent told u was rlly sweet she sounds so cool and grwat!!! 

Yes, she was. -

- was?

May I ask you my question now? -

- oh yeah ofc!!!

I wish to post a few sketch pages today. There are quite a few involving you. -
May I post them? I shall not tag you this time. -

- man...heart flutters every time i remember that you jus casually DRAW me
- BUT NOW THAT I THINK ABT IT IM NOT SPECIAL AM I??? i found out from some people that sometimes youll sketch them when theyre like happy or sth then youll give them the sketch?? literally WTF that's so cute

Oh, yes. Immortalisations of joy. -

- THATS WHAT YOU CALL THEM???
- oh my GODS albedo how r you REAL

Haha, I simply like capturing happiness. People are at their most beautiful when they are happy - it is actually one of the things that draws me the most to you. You are a very happy person. -
You definitely are special, Aether. You are probably the only person that I wish to draw in full, in every single way I can think of. -

- (×**#*÷&$*££3#(!!!!
- it is WAY too early for your sweet talk SIR
- yes u can post!! thank you for telling me <3 ill look out for it!

Thank you very much. Have a lovely day. -

- you toooo my fave dr artist!

Albedo hasn't uploaded on Instagram for a while, which is why he decided to post a few pages of his recent sketches. And, slightly embarrassingly, each page has at least one Aether. 

The first has one of Aether hugging a bouquet of yellow tulips (a bizarre sketch that came to mind when Zhongli told him something about Aether catching a bouquet at a wedding once), happily burying his face in the flowers. The second is the most embarrassing, which Albedo drew the very day that Aether saved him at that garden social. It's an idealised image of Aether taking off his motorbike helmet and shaking his sunlight hair out, like those slow-mos of those women in shows through the eyes of their love interest...

Albedo has to bang his head against his desk to snap out of thinking about that again.

There is another of Aether holding out a forkful of cake while going 'say ahhhh', and a follow-up of him laughing uncontrollably with icing on his face. Then the latest is a headshot of the boy as a sunset, eyes hazily coloured in golds and ambers, skin a soft hue of pink as his braid swishing behind him fades from gold to bronze. Albedo had drawn this almost in a trance while he was at Dr Zhongli's house (Albedo really does bring his sketchbook everywhere just in case of urges) the same day he'd gone with Aether to the airport, and Zhongli was shocked speechless when he came back from a shower and saw it.

Is it...is it really okay to post these...? Albedo thinks nervously, looking over the sketches again. His followers are one hundred percent going to think he's fallen in love, and he can't even blame them. He's also worried that Aether might think the same and then begin to feel awkward around him, and Albedo cannot have that.

Aether, I need to make a disclaimer before I post these sketches. -

- ?

I am not in love with you. I simply adore drawing you, and I also enjoy you as a person. But that is all. -

Albedo lets out a long exhale, flopping onto his bed. That definitely seems like a load off. He doesn't mind how Aether replies because Albedo could not have been any more clear, but he still raises his head to look at his phone.

Only to have Aether laughing at him, apparently.

- JQHHAHAHAHDAH WOWWW
- OKAY I RLLY RLLY NEED TO SEE THESE SKETCHES NOW IF YOU HAD TO MAKE A DISCLAIMER LIKE T H A T
- this is so funny u literally jus gave me like a non-confession
- a DECONFESSION
- OH my gof i legitimately jus tripped bc i was laughing too hard I ALMOST DIED BC OF YOU

I...am sorry? -

- i cant do this why r you the funniest person ever
- we have only known each other for like a month you absolute dolt ofc i kno youre not in love w me!!
- im more interested in playing the long game ;)

I am not sure what you mean... -
But I am glad. Sorry for concerning you with something so trivial. -

- hehe don't worryyyy i think its sweet
- gogo post your beautiful drawings dr  famous artist!!

Aether, I have been meaning to ask, -
You do know that I'm not actually a Dr yet, right? -

- HAHHAH YES ALBEDO I KNOW THAT

Alright. Just checking. -

- wow albedo thinks im dumb </3

I do not! I think you are very intelligent. Definitely the most socially smart person I know. I am really sorry if I made it seem otherwise. -

- I AM JOKING YOU CUTIE im running late for a class bc of you omg jus go!!

Oh gosh, I am so sorry. Have a good class. -

- STOP APOLOGISING ALREADY and thank you <333

There is something about Aether that makes Albedo feel quite stupid sometimes, but not really in a bad way. It's just that it seems like Aether is speaking a different language within words that Albedo can understand but cannot process, and parts of his brain (and heart) gets replaced by warm fuzz leaving him to become quite a mess.

But it is such a new feeling, because Albedo's whole thing is that he is smart.

Aether still seems to like me when I'm not smart, Albedo thinks with a small smile as he reads over their last few messages, so I guess it's not a big problem.

"You're down bad," is the first thing Kaeya says to him from across the room when they spot each other at Angel's Share later that morning, and Albedo wants to run away.

"Kaeya, please, not now-"

"There were like a BILLION drawings of Aether in there and they were the prettiest damn things I've ever seen!" Kaeya yells at him, marching over before he drags over a chair and falls back into it, pointing at Albedo accusingly. "You are a rascal. An absolute closet-romantic flirty rascal and you are killing that poor boy-"

"Kaeya, Dr Zhongli is here," Albedo says weakly, trying not to hide his face behind his hands as much as he wants to. Kaeya blinks before slowly turning to actually see Albedo's companion, who is watching Kaeya with a soft amused smile and eyes glittering with intrigue. Almost immediately Kaeya's composure changes, one leg crossing over the other as he leans forward over the table and rests his chin on the back of his hand, eye twinkling. Gods, this guy has no shame.

"Oh why hello, doctor. Fancy seeing you here."

Albedo rolls his eyes while Zhongli chuckles, saying, "Pleasure to see you as always, Kaeya." 

"Please don't encourage him, sir," Albedo groans when Zhongli kisses the back of Kaeya's outstretched hand. Kaeya sticks his tongue out at Albedo when Zhongli isn't looking.

"What is this enlightening topic that Kaeya was talking about?" Zhongli asks, eyes alight with interest, and Albedo really is going to run away in a minute.

"This is horrible. You are both ganging up on me. Horrible." 

"Albedo posted some super sexy drawings of Aether on Instagram today," Kaeya tells Zhongli whose eyebrows shoot up his forehead. Albedo argues feebly because he's just far too confused, "You- how on earth were they sexy?"

"Okay, I was joking about the sexy thing - but they were crazy, Albedo, you gotta admit," Kaeya says sincerely this time, and Albedo sighs.

"Yes, I know that. But I cleared things up with Aether, I made sure that he knew that I was definitely not in love with him."

Kaeya stares at him. "Wait, so you- you...what, you gave him some sort of deconfession?"

Albedo frowns. "Is that actually a word?"

"I do not believe so, but it definitely seems to fit the situation," Zhongli says, still looking rather surprised. "You actually said those words...'I am not in love with you'?"

"Yes," Albedo says, then rests a tired hand on his forehead when Kaeya reacts like he's been shot, clutching onto Zhongli's arm for support (and definitely not because he wants to feel up his muscles, of course). "Please, it was over text so it was definitely not as bad as you two are probably thinking. And Aether found it humorous, so nothing bad happened. Nothing happened at all!"

"You're so lucky that the dude you're artistically pining after is a damn sunshine," Kaeya grumbles, crossing his arms, and Albedo feels even more ashamed when Zhongli nods in agreement.

"I agree with Mr Alberich."

"Didn't I spend all of last year trying to get you to call me Kaeya instead of that?" Kaeya pouts at Zhongli, and Zhongli blinks a few times, flustered.

"A-Ah, apologies. I agree with Kaeya."

Zhongli looks dazed when Kaeya beams at him, and Albedo would usually tell them to break it up but he doesn't really want to get back to the previous matter, so he just silently sits there sipping at his tea. But he inwardly groans when Kaeya turns his attention back to him, eyes narrowed.

"Honestly, dude. I'm genuinely getting worried whether you're leading them on or not." 

Albedo wants to groan. "How on earth can I be leading him on if I gave him a...'deconfession' as everyone seems to be calling it?"

"Because you idiots have been flirting for a straight month and if I was Aether and didn't have a crush on you by now then I'd be mad."

Albedo raises an eyebrow. Honestly, Kaeya jumps to the strangest of conclusions. Yes, even Albedo knows that the things that him and Aether say to each other can be on the flirty side, but Aether is a social butterfly. Albedo can't imagine someone as beautiful as Aether having unique feelings just for him. Albedo isn't special enough for that, and Aether is the type of person who is meant to share all his neverending personality and love with the whole world.

"I would promise you that I will ask them out one day to quell your worries," Albedo mutters. "But I fear his rejection. I fear losing him even more."

"But! You admit that you would ask him out if those fears weren't there?" Kaeya asks him firmly, and Albedo morosely nods.

"Yes, most likely, at a later date when-"

"Then that's all I need to know! We're good, darling chihuahua," Kaeya says brightly, a big smile suddenly on his face now as he gets up, smacks Albedo's forehead with a big kiss, then stalks off happily. Zhongli and Albedo both stare after him, Albedo in confusion while he touches the place Kaeya kissed him in disbelief, and Zhongli in fascination.

"He has never done that before," Albedo points out, slightly terrified, and Zhongli's topaz eyes are sparkling yet again as he still stares at the door Kaeya had just walked out of.

"I swear, every time I see him, he just becomes even more interesting..."

"Dr Zhongli, if you're about to tell me that Kaeya to you is what Aether is to me then I actually might throw up," Albedo complains in distaste and Zhongli only laughs, which isn't quite an answer.

Hold on, is the prospect of Zhongli and Kaeya together actually not completely in Kaeya's head? Albedo cannot handle that thought in the slightest.

"So is this really the situation? Do you have feelings for Aether?" Zhongli asks in amazement, and Albedo feels miserable as he replies, "Why do you sound so surprised? It definitely makes sense that I'm beginning to fall for someone so wonderful who I am around far too much. This is all Aether's fault, honestly. Who said he had to have a motorbike? Who said he had to be so delightful? Who said he had to be so...everywhere? I have had virtually no choice."

"You are spiralling, Albedo," Zhongli chuckles. "Goodness, you really do like him. I can't think of anything more wonderful! He is like a son to me and I also think very highly of you, so I'm very happy about this."

Getting Zhongli's 'approval' is such an endearing thing that Albedo almost forgets that there's only a tiny possibility that him and Aether would ever...be. So he just smiles, shaking his head as he finishes his drink.

"I need to pick up Klee from school," Albedo says, glad that he has a legitimate excuse to change the subject. "So should we be off?"

Zhongli nods, still looking considerably happy from the previous topic. "Certainly!" 

They walk together until they're both off-campus, and Albedo waves Zhongli goodbye when the man heads in the direction of his home. Albedo looks back at the campus for a moment before blinking when he sees a familiar gold, exuding their beautiful starlit aura as always as he walks surrounded by friends. He's laughing about something, and Aether being happy always eases Albedo's heart.

"Aether!" Albedo calls, waving from his short distance, though he's not very good at being loud. Luckily Aether seems to hear him and turns to face him. But, bizarrely, there is no usual reaction of Aether lighting up and waving back, nor breaking away from his friends for a brief second to run over.

No, this time Aether's eyes grow wide and his face turns an alarming shade of pink before he quickly turns away again, walking on.

And Albedo just stands there. Very confused.

Have I done something wrong?

Albedo is back at the university a few hours later for an afternoon class he teaches, currently waiting for more students to arrive.

He's been trying his very best not to think about what happened with Aether so that his mood wouldn't seem dampened while he was with Klee, but it's difficult. He just can't stop thinking why. Had Aether been embarrassed to greet Albedo in front of his friends? But that's never stopped the boy before. Had he not actually seen Albedo? No, the eye contact was palpable...

Had he not liked the drawings?

Oh dear. That's the only option that seems most plausible.

Albedo wishes he could go to Aether right now to apologise but a lot of his students are here now, so he gets up to announce the start of the class. But before he can say a word, the door is meekly pushed open and gold peeks out from behind it, gorgeous as always in a milky white crop top and bronze culottes.

Albedo's eyes widen, wondering if this is a hallucination as Aether shyly walks towards him and someone from the third row calls out, "You in the wrong class again, Aether?"

"That was one time!" Aether groans, his shyness disappearing for humour for a moment as laughs fills the room. But then his focus is back on Albedo and he bites his lip, stopping a good distance away from him before he holds out a small satin bag. "U-Uh. Macarons."

"Oh. Oh," Albedo processes in surprise, moving closer to take the bag, and he doesn't miss the way Aether seizes up a little bit. "Ah...thank you so much. I did not think you would come?"

"Well, I said I would, right?" Aether says nervously, scratching his cheek as he stares at a point on the wall behind Albedo. Albedo watches him for a second,, before he asks a quiet, "Aether, why won't you look at me?"

Aether blinks, aureate eyes turning panicked as he quickly tries to look at Albedo, but then he's looking away just as fast. "A-Ah, it- it's nothing, Albedo, I swear-"

"I think this is the first time you haven't greeted me with a hug either," Albedo says worriedly, moving even closer and Aether turns a shade of pink that would be beautiful in any other circumstance but it seems out of place now. "Please tell me if I have done anything wrong. My last wish is to ever make you uncomfortable-"

"Albedo, please give me some space!" Aether squeaks suddenly, and Albedo blinks before noticing that he is suddenly a little too close, the tips of their shoes touching. He quickly steps back, feeling terrible.

"Goodness, I am so sorry."

"No, no, please...don't apologise, I just-" Aether cuts himself off with a groan, smacking a palm against his forehead. "This is so stupid. I just...ah, man, I can't face you right now."

Albedo's chest goes painfully tight. It's that bad? "R-Really? I see...that's fine, of course."

Aether nods, rubbing his arm, but then he takes a peek at Albedo's face and his resolve crumbles.

"No, please don't look so sad!" Aether wails, running over to throw his arms around Albedo who blinks. "This is just a me thing. You've done nothing wrong, okay? I'll explain tomorrow, I promise!"

"Tomorrow?" Albedo asks, frowning at the thought of having to sit in this terrible unknown for the entirety of the day. "Why not today?"

Aether sighs heavily. "I'll...I'll tell you why tomorrow. But it's not your fault!"

Albedo doesn't understand in the slightest, but he slowly nods for Aether's sake, resting his face in Aether's shoulder for comfort as he holds onto him tight. Someone in the class wolf-whistles and Albedo smiles when Aether yells at them, "WE'RE HAVING A MOMENT!"

"Alright," Albedo murmurs. "As long as you are not upset, then I am fine with anything."

Aether nods, sunlight hair tickling Albedo's face, then far too quickly he's pulling away and rushing out with a hasty goodbye. Albedo doesn't even have time to say goodbye back and he sighs to himself, heart heavy but he forces himself to gather his composure for the class.

"Alright, morning, class, sorry for that interruption. Today we will...uh. Why are you all looking at me like that," Albedo deadpans when he sees his students' faces, some of them giving him massive knowing smiles while some are staring at him in shock. Then someone from the back who sounds suspiciously like Xingqiu (who is hiding behind Chongyun) yells, "GET SOME, PROFESSOR!" which apparently invites the entire room to chip in to this very private matter.

Albedo facepalms, knowing it was his own fault for acting so unprofessionally, but...his students do manage to put a well-needed smile on his face.

Albedo really wants to tell Kaeya about what's going on, but he doesn't want to bother him. Besides, Aether had kind of said that it wasn't a big deal...so hopefully it really isn't. But Albedo is struck by a bout of curiosity, and for once in his life, being this curious doesn't feel like a blessing.

He's buying groceries after the class, checking through the bananas to see which ones are best. Guaranteed he's a little distracted, and he would rather not be buying groceries while he's in the middle of a sincere crisis over his paramour, but he's been running out of too many items recently.

"Albedo, is that you?" a voice asks, though it goes right through one ear and out the other as Albedo tries to battle his conflicting feelings between bananas and golden flowers. He has to close his eyes for a moment, really wanting to ward off the headache he can feel coming on, but he almost jumps out of his skin when a hand rests on his shoulder.

"Oh, apologies if I surprised you," the refined voice says, and Albedo turns around to see no-one other than Dr Ningguang, one of the only people that Albedo might look forward to seeing at socials and one of the most influential of scientists in this day and age. She hails from the same place as Zhongli.

Dr Ningguang has always fascinated Albedo. She is a very strict and hardworking woman, she barely ever smiles, and according to Zhongli she has been known to be quite ruthless in her methods to gain knowledge and intel. But she is quite contrarily kind to children. Luckily Albedo somehow manages to fall under 'children', maybe because him and Dr Ningguang first met when Albedo was seventeen and took one of her online university courses.

'Children are the indisputable future and must be nurtured with the best of qualities', is one of Dr Ningguang's famous quotes about that, and Albedo wholeheartedly agrees.

"No, no, it's lovely to see you as always, doctor," Albedo says, holding out a hand and Dr Ningguang shakes it. Albedo has to hold back a wince because gods, that's a strong grip. "It's quite rare to see you outside."

"Yes, well, my wife called me from wherever she's gone off to saying she's totalled someone's car," Dr Ningguang says dryly, looking far from impressed. "So I am simply here to get myself a bottle of wine so I do not strangle her when she comes home."

Albedo actually has no clue if Dr Ningguang is joking or not, but he chuckles all the same and luckily that seems to relax the woman a little bit. "Glad it amuses at least one person. But that does remind me - Dr Zhongli will probably let you know about this, but I will be hosting a social next week. We would like for you to come."

Albedo feels quite touched. He's never been invited to something in person before, and if Ningguang is hosting...maybe it won't be so terrible? "Oh, thank you very much for the offer-"

"And do invite that spouse of yours. They made quite a commotion last time, didn't they?" Dr Ningguang says, actually smiling now, and Albedo freezes.

"O-Oh...yes...he did..."

"So he is male? Everyone was unsure about his gender. We wondered, but could all only settle on the fact that he is very beautiful. You've done well, future doctor," Dr Ningguang says and her voice is still very composed but Albedo can't help but think she's teasing him.

"Well, he's actually non-binary so he'll be happy to hear that...but, ah. Dr Ningguang, you see-"

"I should be off, but I'll be looking forward to seeing the both of you there," Ningguang calls as she walks off, and Albedo is reminded of Dr Zhongli complaining a few times in the past about her interrupting problem. What a fast-paced woman.

And now Albedo has another dilemma. He does not wish to disappoint Dr Ningguang, but he cannot make Aether lie again. He also would never wish for Aether to experience boredom that would probably be even greater for him since they won't have knowledge about the topics any fellow scientists would bring up.

But...the thought of attending a social with Aether...the thought of seeing them dressed up to the nines as he would most likely effortlessly vanquish all of Albedo's negative feelings towards these gatherings with a single starry smile...

Albedo decides to park these wonderful thoughts in the back of his mind as he goes about finishing shopping and power-walks over to self-checkout so he can get home as soon as possible.

'Self-checkout closed, please use the tills' a sign says when Albedo gets there, and when he looks to the side to see the massive queues for the only tills available, he inwardly groans. He never should have come here.

The instant he finally walks through his door, he takes out Aether's macarons, drops his bag, sheds his coat, then makes a beeline for his bed so he can flop right onto it. He sighs, staying like that for a long moment as he quietly suffocates himself in comfortingly familiar-smelling duvet.

His phone buzzes, so he shuffles a little to get it out of his pocket and toss it on the bed in front of his face. He frowns when all it is is some service text from a dry-cleaning service he used last week, and he has a sudden urge to throw his phone out of the window.

Though, that wouldn't be very convenient...

"This is horrible," Albedo mutters to himself, raking a hand through his hair before he hastily opens the satin bag so he can munch on a (very delicious) macaron for comfort.

It's so rare for him to feel this strongly, and he isn't even sure why. Is he really so caught-up in his worries about Aether and whatever must be wrong? Is he spent after having met Dr Ningguang? Is his terrible lifestyle of too little sleep and food choosing now to catch up with him?

Albedo needs to calm down. When he needs to calm down, he usually draws. Except he doesn't want to draw, because there is a very high chance that it was his very drawings that have made Aether act this way.

Stupid, stupid, stupid. He should've taken more time to think about whether he should post or not, he should've convinced himself not to. Aether had just been such a sweetheart as always, clouding Albedo's mind with fuzz, and it made Albedo too eager to let the world see his immortalisations of Aether's beauty.

Albedo's fingers tap on his phone screen on auto-pilot and before he knows it, he's in Aether's messages. He grimaces seeing the latest one, Aether's sweet 'STOP APOLOGISING ALREADY and thank you <333' from this morning.

That sure aged terribly.

Maybe looking at Aether's profile will make him feel better. Even just thinking about him right now is giving Albedo a calming sense of comfort (even if it's also paired with panicked dread...), so Albedo tries to click at Aether's username at the top of the screen. Only for his hand to slip when his phone buzzes again, surprising him.

Albedo frowns, swiping down to check the notification. An email from the University, apparently, he'll check that la- what is that infuriating buzzing noise? Is that coming from his phone?

He pulls the notification panel up, only to drop his phone with a start.

Why...why does his phone say he's Instagram-calling Aether?

He just stares for a moment, fully malfunctioning as the ringtone sounds. How did this happen. How did this happen. Oh gods, shouldn't- shouldn't he hang up? How on earth do you hang up Instagram calls? Why aren't Albedo's fingers able to move right now?!

Then the ringtone cuts out, and Albedo serenely thinks, Oh, good. Aether didn't pick up. It's over. Time to go back to-

"Hello? Albedo?"

Albedo falls off the bed.

"Wha- WHAT WAS THAT NOISE?!" Aether's sweet voice yells while Albedo far less than gracefully fumbles to get up in a frenzy before giving up and reaching out to grab his phone, still on the floor.

"A-Aether! Don't worry, it was nothing much, but, ah- this- this was a complete accident, I know you said you didn't want to talk until tomorrow so I shall respect your wishes and hang up now and I wish you a lovely night and I am truly sorry for-"

"Albedo, please shut your adorable mouth," Aether laughs on the other line, and Albedo does indeed shut his mouth. He really feels like a kicked puppy kneeling on the ground like this and awaiting Aether's words, wincing when Aether takes in a deep breath.

Then they say softly, "I've really worried you so much, haven't I? I'm so sorry."

Albedo shakes his head. "No, I-!"

"No, you've been apologising way too much when you haven't been needing to so just let me do it, okay? I...I just feel really stupid, since I gave you permission for posting those sketches but then they ended up affecting me so much."

Albedo's heart sinks. So it was the sketches, of course it was. "I will take them down. Just say the word."

"Gods. You're too sweet to me," Aether says softly, but he sounds so bitter. Like coffee-cream biscuits that Alice once bought for Albedo. "Don't take them down. Do you know the reason they affect me so much, Albedo?"

"Because it's strange to have someone draw you this way? Creepy?" Albedo suggests, feeling even worse as he voices these concerns out loud. Yet Aether laughs at his reply.

"I knew you'd say something like that. But, nah. It's kinda the opposite."

"The...opposite?"

"Mhm. It just-" Aether pauses for a second, letting out a small shaky breath. "It just gets to me way too much. That you can look at me and somehow draw me like that. That those drawings are how you see me. It's so hard to believe a-and yet the evidence is right there and I...I...can't."

Oh, gosh.

Albedo finally understands.

"Aether," Albedo says softly, wishing more than anything that he could take the boy's hand right now. "I think of you as such a beautiful specimen. You are sunlight personified, all the good in the world spun into one being. And I honestly don't want to stop telling you that or drawing you like this until you're desensitised to it. You, more than anyone, deserve to know how beautiful you are inside and out."

"Inside and out?" Aether whispers, and Albedo nods.

"Definitely."

"Why are you so good to me?" Aether asks, voice cracking slightly and it breaks Albedo's heart. "Even...even when I do things like confuse you and worry you and I probably take up way too much of your busy PhD time..."

Albedo smiles. "Well. Yes, sometimes I wonder what on earth you are going on about half the time, but that's probably because I am not well-versed in social communication. It still fascinates me all the same, and I want nothing more than to understand you."

Aether laughs at that, a soft pure laugh that raises Albedo's spirits immensely. "Still fascinated by me, huh? This hasn't put you off?"

"Not in the slightest. And you do not waste any of my time, as you implied earlier, so do not think you do."

"Okay," Aether says quietly, and Albedo is glad that's settled. They're both quiet for a moment, even though Albedo feels like there are so many more things he wants to say but he doesn't know how to put them into words yet - but then Aether clears his throat and says, "W-Well, just a heads up, I still think from now on that I'm gonna need like...at least one full day before I'll be able to face you after you post a sketch of me. Thinking about you drawing me like that just makes me feel so shy around you..."

"Of course," Albedo agrees, nodding dutifully. "I can still hang up now, if I am making you uncomf-"

"No! No, we're good now."

"Then I will tell you a funny story."

Aether bursts into surprised laughter. "What kinda change of topic is that? Okay, okay, tell me!"

"Earlier, I was at the grocery store. I bumped into someone there, and that person happened to be Dr Ningguang."

Aether gasps. "Woah, even I know Dr Ningguang."

"Yes. We exchanged pleasantries, then she ended up inviting me to another gathering."

"Oh no, Albedo, I'm sorry. I can always save you aga-"

"She asked me to bring my husband, too."

There's no reply for a moment. So Albedo counts down from three, and surely enough, Aether is howling in laughter by the time he hits one. It's the best thing to hear after a long torturous day like this one.

"OH MY GO- STOP, STOP, D-DID SHE ACTUALLY?!"

"She did. And what would you know, apparently most of the guests from last time were debating your gender but all settled on the fact that you're beautiful," Albedo tells him smugly, and laughs when Aether squeaks before a slap sound is heard, probably Aether slapping a hand over his mouth.

"S-Stop, you're LYING."

"This is the complete truth, cross my heart."

"Gods, that's like a dream of mine that I never knew I even had," Aether says, sounding delightedly breathless. Albedo wishes more than anything that he could see the expression that matches his voice. "Looks and gender euphoria all in one day? Wow...say thank you to your nerd friends from me!"

"They are not my- you've been spending too much time with Xiao," Albedo says disapprovingly, and Aether giggles, "He's my best friend!"

"Not an excuse."

"Okay okay, when's the gathering?"

"Next we- wait, pardon?" Albedo asks in confusion. "Why do you want to know?"

"Because I'm coming, duh!" Aether says like it's nothing, when it very much is not nothing. "Oh man, I cannot wait to be Dr Artist's fancy, pretty, loving trophy husband-!"

"Aether, oh my goodness, please hold your horses," Albedo quickly interrupts, resting a hand on his forehead. That headache's threatening him again... "You must be joking. How could you want to spend however many hours in the most boring company in the world?"

"You're so mean to people who are just like you!" Aether scolds, and Albedo silently thinks, Well, I don't particularly like myself so there's that. "And I bet it won't be boring if I'm with you! And if you hate it too much then we can always leave early, I'll lie that one of our chandeliers fell on a maid or something-"

"Aether," Albedo interrupts with a chuckle, greatly amused. "We are not doing this lying game again. I don't want you to act all posh like you did last time."

"Wha- why not?!" Aether whines. "It was so fuuuuun-"

"And fun is a delightful thing, but I am one hundred percent certain that all these people will find the real you even more delightful, like I do." 

"Hm...okay, only because you're sweet-talking me," Aether huffs, though he does sound pleased. "Wait, so I can actually come? Really?!"

Gosh, Albedo hadn't realised that he'd been inadvertently agreeing to this. "Mm...yes, fine...I shall send you the details when I have received them."

"SWEET!" Aether whoops. "And I'm still gonna be pretending to be your husband so get ready for kisses and me draping myself all over your arm like eye candy, mister!"

Oh...dear. Albedo flushes a deep red while imagining that, hiding his face in his arms as he replies shakily, "A-Alright, if you wish..."

"Aw, Albedo, you let me get away with way too much. Don't worry, I won't be too bad. I won't embarrass you either, promise!"

"That is the last thing I am worried about. I do not get embarrassed easily, and letting you do whatever you want will definitely cure my boredom."

"See? You're too good to me," Aether laughs, and Albedo wants to tell him that it's definitely the other way around. But Aether's laugh manifests into a yawn, and the boy mumbles, "Heck, I'm sleepy already? Crying always makes me sleepy..."

Albedo sits up with a start. "You were crying?"

"Ah- no! Well, yes, but it's not what you think!" Aether panics. "Ugh, why did I say that - today's just been a really long and tiring day and I was emotional about your drawings and missing my sister hit hard too 'cause I wanted to talk to her about it and like hug her and then I just spiralled- and I cry really easily anyway so it's not that big of a-"

"Can I hold your hand?" Albedo blurts out, unable to help it. He hears Aether's breath hitch. "Ah...I know it won't be as good as a hug from your sister, and I will also hug you too if you wa-"

"I'd love for you to hold my hand," Aether says quietly, but each of his words sound like they're full of emotion that Albedo can't recognise. He hopes he will one day. "Do...do you want to come over, maybe?"

Albedo nods faster than lightning, already getting up and leaving his room. "Definitely. I'll be there in five."

"Okay. Gah, but I look terrible right now-"

"Aether, I did not tell you that whole spiel earlier about how beautiful you are for you to tell me something like that."

"Okay, okay!" Aether giggles, but there's something off about his tone. "Oh...oh, man...ha, I'm tearing up again...!"

Albedo completely foregoes a coat when he hears that, just grabbing his keys and slamming the front door behind him. "Scratch that, I will be there in two minutes."

Aether makes a sound that's like a mix between a sob and a laugh. "Too good to me..."

"I'll see you soon, Aether."

Aether's voice is even smaller than a whisper when he replies, "I'll wait."

Albedo hangs up, bolting down the street after he's pocketed his phone. He's never done as much running in his life as he has since he met Aether, and he'll probably look like a right winded mess when he gets to the dorm complex.

But Aether will probably look like a mess too, a gorgeous teary one, and nothing is about to stop Albedo from holding his hand so tight.

Chapter Text

You can't quite have 500k followers on Instagram without having done things about it.

Albedo was very content with only ever posting art from the comfort of his foster homes, or dorm complex, or small apartment - wherever he lived during the seven long years that he's had this account - but as time passed, he started being reached out to for commissions, for limited-time exhibitions, then eventually he started being asked if he wanted to have his art in galleries. It was too much of a shock that this was was even a possibility that how could Albedo have ever said no?

To this day, Albedo has his art in seventeen modern galleries around the world. The stressful part is that he doesn't have a team to transport his works and as an anonymous artist he doesn't really want to reveal his real name to any moving companies.

Which is why here he is in England, many miles away from the comfort of Germany, standing in an art gallery with sunglasses and a mask on as he tries his sincere best not to fall asleep.

Having enough money for these trips by now because of his art commissions is both a blessing and a curse.

"Dr Ningguang invited you? Personally? This is amazing, Albedo!" Zhongli cheers over the phone, currently the only reason that Albedo is still awake (usually that role is filled by Kaeya but he hasn't been contacting Albedo for quite a while so that can only mean he's busy, right?), and Albedo logs back into the conversation. His jet-lagged brain kind of doesn't remember what Zhongli is talking about, but then it clicks. Dr Ningguang's social.

"How so?"

"It means you're truly making a name for yourself. Really, so many people are already very impressed by you but to have that kind of virtue from Dr Ningguang herself, incredible!"

Albedo isn't quite as impressed as Zhongli is, mostly because Albedo's only ever wanted praise for his work from two people in his life - that one foster parent of his and Dr Zhongli himself - but he smiles at Zhongli's excitement. "I see."

"It's quite sad, as I am unable to attend..."

Albedo frowns at that. Zhongli usually really likes these kinds of events, or at least excels at them way more than Albedo does. "Really? Why so?"

"I have a movie night with Xiao! I'm letting him choose the movies, and they seem rather animal-themed so far. I did not know Xiao liked pandas so much."

"Is the movie...Kung-Fu Panda?"

"That's the one! Do you like pandas too, Albedo?"

Albedo shakes his head amusedly, deciding not to give an answer. Dr Zhongli really is a treasure. "How's Xiao doing?"

"Still rather flustered by your comment from last week," Zhongli chuckles. "He told me, and I almost quote, you are the only nerd he respects."

Albedo smiles. "He doesn't respect you?"

"Maybe not because I embarrass him quite a bit, but he definitely loves me and that's good enough for me," Zhongli sniffs, probably doing that thing where he rests a hand over his heart. "And he's been teaching me a lot of things recently."

Albedo can tell. Zhongli called Albedo 'dude' the other day. Dude.

"For example, do you know about something called genderfluidity? Xiao made me aware, and it is quite wonderful because I do definitely think there are times when I feel more feminine. Masculine too. Or neither, or even both."

That...really touches Albedo's heart. "That is lovely, doctor."

"Isn't it?" Zhongli says happily, sounding as bright as the sun even with that gravelly voice of his. Albedo can't believe he was ever intimidated by this man. "It also made me remember that I have always wanted to try a dress. Do you think I have the figure for it?"

"Of course. We can go dress-shopping soon, if you want. I'll buy you one."

"Albedo! You spoil me too much, what a wonderful friend you are- Xiao, darling, I think I smell your agar agar burning?" Zhongli calls and Albedo silently festers in the fact that the Dr Zhongli just called him his friend as a loud, "SHIT!" sounds in the background.

"Xiao seems to be in quite some distress so I shall leave you be now," Zhongli tells him kindly, and Albedo can only nod as he pathetically hides his red face behind a hand. "Have a lovely day, Albedo!"

"You too, sir..."

The line goes dead, and Albedo sighs quietly before pocketing his phone. Then right on cue, a voice calls, "Kreideprinz, hello!", and Albedo turns to see who must be the director of the gallery. Her aesthetic is very purple, from her hair down to her shoes as her hairstyle makes her buns look like sweet cat ears, and Albedo is rather charmed by her appearance as she holds out a hand for him to shake. Firm grip, but luckily not as bad as Dr Ningguang's.

"Lovely to meet you. Are those your paintings behind you?"

"Yes," Albedo says, trying not to let his weariness seep into his voice nor make him forget all his English. He got a taxi for most the way here from the airport, but just carrying these paintings through the gallery even with the help of security was a great hassle in itself. "Where would you like them to be put?"

"Oh, you don't need to worry about that, sir. Boys!" the woman calls, snapping her fingers, and immediately at least five uniformed men move in to take the paintings which almost makes Albedo jump. The woman herself also looks like she's itching to help, but pulls back so she can introduce herself. "My name is Keqing, director of this gallery. I hope your journey here was to your liking."

Albedo nods.

"I have been a fan of your work for quite some time. Your art has a refined yet comforting quality to it, it's quite relaxing to look at. I also find your efficiency and imagination inspiring."

Albedo nods.

"Is Kreideprinz the only name you go by publicly?"

Albedo nods again, and Keqing's lips quirk up the tiniest bit. "Not much of a talker? I respect that."

Actually, Albedo just talks as little as he can on these trips because he likes to stay as anonymous as possible (and people tend to tell him that he has a unique voice). He also has a pretty dry throat right now, he hadn't managed to drink any water before coming here...

"Would you like to look around? We'll finish setting up your work by the time you're back, and you can stay here for a while if you're the type of person who likes to interact with viewers."

Albedo actually is the type. Or rather, he likes to see their reactions. He prefers to act like another viewer than the actual artist, and see all the expressions of the people passing by. There is just something so incredibly fascinating when someone might stop at the sight of his work, just to stare a little. Maybe their eyes grow wider, or simply sparkle. Maybe they look curious, like they are trying to find a hidden meaning. Maybe they just say a single but very prominent 'woah', then go on their way.

Either way, Albedo finds every sort of reaction intriguing. They also make him feel quite warm inside.

Walking through the galleries he visits is always a treat. He can never spend more than a day abroad because of his busy schedule, and that same schedule bars him from having much time to go to art exhibitions in Mondstadt, so these trips are a haven. One of the biggest reasons why he even bothers to make the trip.

He smiles at a painting he sees of a puppy waiting for his owner, drenched in the rain but still looking as happy and optimistic as ever, tail wagging. The puppy is golden, a golden retriever Albedo believes, and he looks left and right before sneakily taking a picture and sending it to Aether with the message, 'Look, it's you.'

He notes down the name of the artist, then goes to move on to the next painting. But he stills when he suddenly hears a loud ruckus of noise, as well as an authoritative voice calling, "Alright, everyone, settle down!"

Ah. A school visit.

Albedo decides to go back to where he was before to give the kids more space, pleasantly surprised to see that his exhibition is ready. He stands in front of it while the school children come pouring in, and he realises that they aren't young like he'd first thought. Maybe sixteen, seventeen? They're loud with their chatter but pretty well-behaved, going around in pairs and threes as they pencil things into little booklets they have, and Albedo feels quite warmed by the sight of them. But not wanting to look strange by staring, he decides to go back to his phone.

Ah, Aether has replied.

- EXCUUUUUSE ME SIR R YOU CALLING ME A DOG
- this is such a RUDE way to treat ur HUSBAND

Albedo chuckles behind a closed fist.

Aether, you are not my husband until 8pm tonight. -

- SO YOUR FUTURE HUSBAND!!! EVEN WORSE I TELL YOU

Please forgive me, darling. I will do anything. -

- hMMMMMmmmM
- maybe i shall forgive u if you buy me a bigger engagement ring...i want FIFTY MORE DIAMONDS on it

They're joking, but Aether actually brings up a valid point. Don't they need wedding rings?

Anything for you. -

- then i love you again honey~

Albedo grins. Aether really does never fail to raise his energy levels because suddenly, he doesn't feel tired in the slightest.

He starts tapping out a reply, but pauses when he hears a youthful voice murmur a starstruck, "Woah..."

Albedo looks up to see a young boy from the school staring at one of his paintings, jaw slack and eyes filled with stars. Albedo blinks, chest tightening because he's not quite sure he's ever had such an...obvious and honest reaction to his art before. It's quite a lovely feeling.

Then the boy seems to notice Albedo and he fumbles trying to compose himself, almost tripping over air while he's at it. "A-Ah, hello, sir! May I ask, um...are you the artist of these paintings? Kreideprinz?"

Well, there's no use in lying when he's being outright asked about it, so Albedo nods. The boy's eyes go all starry again as his hands clench into excited fists in front of him. "Woah, you're- that's so cool! I follow you on Instagram! I don't know the first thing about art, but...you're super popular and your art is super SUPER cool!"

Albedo smiles as he reaches out to ruffle the boy's hair before he can even stop himself, the boy looking all kinds of surprised and awed at the fact that 'cool artist is patting my head, cool artist is patting my head!' This is why Albedo loves kids.

"M-My name's Bennett!" the boy continues, trying to...salute, maybe?...but it doesn't quite go right as his hand flies into his eye. "And, I've always wanted to tell you, I really liked that one post you drew of a bear that always had a bandage around its head? Because he was clumsy and kept getting hurt every day and everyone was mean to him because he looked big and scary? But he still did all the things he wanted to do every day without fear, because going for your dreams is worth it even if there are a few setbacks! And so the bear followed his dreams and made friends and got a degree and became a pre-school teacher and was finally happy! That was so cool."

Albedo blinks, surprised and amused by Bennett's (very detailed) recollection of that specific comic. It sure sends him back. He actually drew that mini comic series for Klee two years ago, the main character being one of her toys that people in her class had made fun of for looking scary. Yet Albedo became quite emotionally attached to the comic so he decided to post it online in hopes that people would appreciate the message. Heartwarmingly, it seemed to resonate a lot with parents who showed the comic to their children.

And apparently, this boy too?

"See, I really want to be an explorer, but I'm pretty unlucky," the boy says shyly, scratching his cheek. "So people always tell me that I'll probably be struck by lightning the instant I try. But that bear didn't give up! So I won't either! Even if I'm unlucky, I'll keep going, and fix my problems myself."

He reminds me of Alice, Albedo thinks fondly. Free-spirited and hopelessly enthusiastic explorers.

Albedo holds up a hand, then opens his satchel hanging off his shoulder to take out his sketchbook and a pen. He flips through the pages before finding the one he's looking for, and writes a simple 'Keep going, Bennett' underneath it. Then he tears out the page, and holds it out to the boy who stares at it with wide eyes.

"For...for me?" Bennett asks in disbelief, hands trembling as he slowly brings them up to take the page when Albedo nods. Bennett looks down, then his eyes somehow get even bigger when he sees that it's a drawing of the bear, smiling as he waves at whoever would be looking at the page, happy as ever even though he's sporting the signature bandage as well as a crutch and one arm in a sling. Albedo had drawn this on a rainy day once with a cup of tea, purely out of nostalgia.

The nostalgia quickly turns into panic when Bennett suddenly tears up.

"A-Ah, sorry, I'm okay!" Bennett says quickly when Albedo tries to offer him tissues from his bag. The boy brings an arm up to wipe at his face, laughing spritely as he says, "Oh man, you're...even COOLER than I thought you were. Thank you so so much, sir..."

Albedo holds out his sketchbook, and Bennett blinks. "I can...look through it?"

Albedo nods, and Bennett lights up as he takes the book and holds it as carefully as some sort of gemstone. He opens the book painstakingly slow, and Albedo feels like this boy really must be unlucky if he thinks he's going to ruin the book from opening it too fast.

"Wow..." Bennett murmurs as he flicks through the sketchbook, always taking a good minute to look at each page, so much pure wonder in his eyes and Albedo feels a rather rare bout of shyness. Then Bennett pauses and looks up at Albedo, bashful curiosity in his eyes. "Ah, I don't wanna overstep but there- there are quite a lot of drawings of Ae- I mean, this person? You posted drawings of him on Insta too. And the drawings are really super pretty. You must like him a lot!"

Albedo knows immediately who he's talking about. He's about to nod again, but then Bennett suddenly looks left and right before leaning in, whispering behind his hand, "Do you...have a crush on him?"

Albedo almost wants to laugh. What a youthful question. Albedo doesn't think he's ever heard someone say the word 'crush' since he was fifteen, and Albedo was never really one to experience the heart-fluttering, butterflies-in-stomach feeling of fancying another person. There were a few times, a very select few times, where he felt so fascinated by a person that maybe it could mean something similar - but everything would eventually fade once Albedo discovered more about the person.

But Aether makes him feel such a great multitude of things that bowls him over every coming day, and there is probably no more of a perfect word to explain all of these stark, strong emotions. Crush.

So Albedo nods, and Bennett's mouth drops open. "Woah! WOAH! Oh my gosh, I didn't expect you to actually answer, that- oh man, my favourite artist is LGBT+, that's so COOL!"

Is it now, Albedo thinks amusedly, watching the boy silently fanboy on the spot before he composes himself with a deep breath. Then he wrings his hands shyly. "I-I also have a crush on a boy and it's pretty scary but, but it's also really nice! I like him so so much. But I'm too worried to ask him out, because...I'm so unlucky that there's a massive chance he'll say no but also other people who are with me usually get caught up in all my mess a-and what if he becomes my boyfriend and then we spend more time together than we already do and something REALLY bad happens to him and it'll be all my-"

"Bennett," Albedo says, cutting the boy off who stares up at him with wide teary eyes. Kids... "You deserve happiness too."

Gods, Albedo cringes after he says that. He kind of wants to reiterate but before he can open his mouth again, Bennett's eyes fully well up. Again. Albedo is almost jealous of how good this boy's hydration must be as he forces tissues into his hands, and it's just his luck that another boy (with an interesting scar on his face and curiously long spiked hair) comes over right then and calls, "Benny?"

"A-Ah, Razor!" Bennett yelps, using his arms again (instead of the damn tissues) to clean his face before facing him.

Razor, huh? Albedo swears Klee has a friend called Razor. What a coincidence.

Razor takes one look at Bennett before pulling him into a protective embrace, glaring fiercely at Albedo. "What did you do to Benny."

"No, no, Razor, he didn't do anything wrong! Look, he gave me this!" Bennett says quickly, pulling back to show Razor the bear drawing, and Razor's eyes widen as he looks at it. Then he turns to Albedo, drooping like a kicked puppy as he apologises, "Sorry. I was worried about Benny."

Albedo waves a hand to show that it's fine, kind of wanting to pat Razor's head too, and he watches curiously as Bennett grabs Razor's hand and says excitedly, "This is that cool artist I was talking about! I knew the gallery was gonna put up his paintings today but I didn't know he'd be here!"

Razor smiles softly as he listens to Bennett's eager rambling, which is quite a sweet sight. Albedo wonders if (and kind of hopes) that Razor is the boy Bennett has a crush on because even Albedo can sense something here.

"Oh, sir! Can we take a picture with you?"

Albedo thinks for a moment, before nodding. "I'll put it on my story, if that's okay."

"'If that'- that's like a DREAM!" Bennett explodes in earnest, turning as red as a tomato. Albedo smiles as he finds the camera on his phone, then gestures for the two boys to pose with him in front of the nearest painting of his. Soon he has a photo on his phone of Bennett beaming at the camera and Razor staring quite deadpanly even while he's giving Bennett bunny ears with his fingers.

Albedo really hopes Keqing doesn't find out about all this photo-taking he's doing...

"Thank you again, sir!" Bennett tells him after he tells Albedo his handle, and Albedo nods before watching the two walk away, still holding hands as Bennett says a sheepish, "Sorry for running off..." and Razor replies, "S'okay, but stay now."

What an oddly sweet pair.

He then sees the time on his phone, and decides he should be leaving. He uploads the photo on his story while pinning the location before he goes to find Keqing so he can sign whatever he needs to sign, and the director looks surprised to hear he's leaving already.

"You don't want to stay any longer?"

Albedo shakes his head, and says, "I need to go find a jewellery store."

Good afternoon, Aether. -

- ALBEDOOOOOOOOOO
- oh yeah right wtF albedo what r you doing in ENGLAND

Haha, I am not in England anymore. You saw my story? -

- DUH
- i wanted to text you abt it but i got distracted by a butterfly then i had class lmfao
- and what were u doing with razor and bennett???

You KNOW them? -

Wow. But how can Albedo even be surprised that Aether knows people in England? It must be an even smaller country than Albedo thought for him to know the exact kids he met, though.

- YEAH!! it was such a shock to see you w them omg

They were so lovely, Aether. I must tell you about them later. -
For now, I need you to do something for me. -

- WAIT... WDYM YOURE NOT IN ENGLAND 'ANYMORE'
- I LITERALLY SAW YOU YESTERDAY AT UNI
- SO YOU JUS DIPPED N LEFT LIKE THAT???

Yes. There is not much point in staying there longer than I need to, and the flight is only two hours. -

- WTF
- tell me the truth albedo are you rich

??? You travel a lot too, don't you? -

- yeah but me n my sis like CRIMP N SAVE and we always get at least one job between us wherever we travel
- what u do doesn't seem like travelling??

I guess you are correct. Whether I am rich or not...I guess I might be, but not really, because I need to use all that money for certain things. -

- WHA
- 'are you rich' is a YES OR NO QUESTION

I beg to differ. -

- see that is what a Rich person would say

A flight to England from here isn't even that expensive, do you want me to buy you one? -

- WHA
- no omg but that is TOTALLY WHAT A RICH PERSON WOULD SAY!!!! WHAT THE HELL 
- i would drive to england before ever buying a plane ticket there and i dont even drive!

Oh my goodness, Aether, please can we talk about this another time? I really need you to do something for me right now. -

- OH OMG im so sorry whats wrong what is it???

I need you to open the door. -

- wh
- HUH

Do I need to repeat myself? -

- DONT GO ALL TEACHERY ON ME WTF DO YOU MEAN OPEN THE DOOR???
- WHICH DOOR??@??#?'!!!

Your...dorm door, Aether... -

- what the FUCK
- how did u get into my dorm complex 🔪

A student of mine told me the code. -

- that sounds like an abuse of POWER SIR

It was not! They were happy to give it to me when I said I was visiting you and besides, doesn't it change every month? -

- hm.....ok dr know-it-all artist.....MAYBE i shall open the door.........
- if I get murdered then the blood is on your hands

Aether, why on earth would I murder you. At 2pm. For no reason whatsoever. -

- THIS JUS SEEMS SKETCHY OK
- IM. IM NOT HOME

I can hear you yelling from inside the dorm room. -

- YEAH IM YELLING AT YOU TO LEAVE. SECURITYYYY

Aether, you are beautiful and hilarious, but this is sadly not the time. My knee is beginning to hurt. -

- first off that beautiful was not necessary you FLIRT
- second ??? why is your knee hurting??

You'll find out if you open the door, won't you? -

The tactic of curiosity baiting seems to work because Aether doesn't reply again. Albedo takes in a breath before pocketing his phone and picking up the small box beside him on the floor.

Nothing ever prepares him for seeing Aether in casual home clothing. It's his favourite form of Aether, when sunlight strands hastily pulled into a messy braid stick up every now and then, his face looks fresh and soft with the faintest of freckles peeking out, and he's wearing a big gold knitted sweater and shorts that show off his beautiful legs that are right in Albedo's line of sight. He blushes hard, having to quickly look away.

"Al...be...?" Aether begins but doesn't quite finish as his eyes slowly travel down.

To where Albedo is on one knee and holding up a box that houses a sparkling gold ring.

"Hello," Albedo says with an amused smile, finally, while Aether stares at the ring in shock.

Before promptly slamming the door in Albedo's face.

Albedo's eyes widen. "Wha- AETHER!"

"AH - sorry, I panicked!" Aether yelps, but he doesn't quite open the door. "Albedo, you...please don't tell me this is what I think it is..."

"Well, I'm not sure what you are thinking. Please can you open the door so I can finish?"

There's a short silence, then the door slowly opens a crack and Aether peeks through it shyly. Albedo smiles, still holding out the ring as he says, "Now, I know this doesn't quite have more than fifty diamonds...but nevertheless, will you, dear Aether, take this ring and be my pretend husband from 8pm tonight to a few hours onward?"

"Oh my gods, I hate you so much," Aether whispers behind a hand covering his mouth, even as he pushes the door open more and holds out his other hand so Albedo can slide the ring onto Aether's finger. Luckily it fits, and Albedo thinks it looks so perfect on him. Aether is definitely made for jewellery. "Get up, you idiot."

"Do you like it?" Albedo teases, indeed getting up and his legs feel rather stiff but he forgets about that completely when Aether immediately throws his arms around Albedo, squeezing him into the warmest embrace. "I got it from England. It's international."

Albedo really did get it from England. With quite a bit of time left to spare before his flight back home, he went to the nearest jewellery store he could find and spent a calming hour trying to find something he liked. Something gold. Something that would compliment Aether. Something almost as pretty as the flower who would wear it.

"You dork," Aether laughs in disbelief, burying his face into Albedo's neck. "I can't believe when I first met you online, I thought you were some super cool refined artist but now I know you're just as big of a dork as me."

"I agree that this set-up was a little 'dorky', but you actually reminded me with all your ring talk earlier that we do need wedding rings," Albedo argues soundly as Aether pulls back to admire the ring again. "So I bought some. At...at first, I tried to make it match the earring you always wear. But then I know you like stars, and so do I. So this is what I settled on. You can keep it."

The ring is a thin gold band, with tiny sparkling diamond stars littered across the expanse of gold. Albedo has a matching silver one.

"Oh man, you put thought into it. And you had enough money to be able to put thought into it. You're definitely rich," Aether somehow concludes, and Albedo rolls his eyes. But then Aether blinks, eyebrows furrowing. "How do you know I like stars?"

"Well. Zhongli told me once," Albedo says, though he pauses when he realises he hasn't quite let go of Aether yet, hands still on the boy's waist as Aether stands as close as he possibly could, staring at Albedo with all the stars of this world in those aureate eyes of his. Albedo feels so helpless and he lets himself be selfish as he keeps holding on, bunching his hands into Aether's golden sweater. "Y-Your Instagram handle is also wordplay on the name of a constellation. That fascinated me slightly when I first saw it."

"Oh," Aether says, seeming surprised as his cheeks dash with a soft pink. "Do...do you know why I like that constellation?"

"I think so. Is it because there is also a very similar constellation called Viatrix, basically the same pattern but reversed, and people refer to it as Viator's twin?"

Aether nods, a faraway look in his eyes. "We first heard about it when we were kids. I claimed Viator, and my sister claimed Viatrix. We bought each other telescopes for our fifteenth birthday and whenever we're apart, we'll try to find the constellations. Then we know for sure that we're under the same sky."

"I adore how close you two are," Albedo says softly, and Aether smiles, warm and nostalgic.

"We've just been through a lot together...it's always been us against the world. But, Lumine said that maybe we should go to different universities so we don't end up depending too much on each other and I think it was a good idea. I miss her a whole lot, and sometimes it hits really hard, but I think it's getting easier."

Aether has a wonderful shine about him when he talks about his sister. "That's good."

"I want her to meet you. For real, and not just over text!" Aether insists, looking so excited about the prospect that Albedo wouldn't be able to deny him anything. "I know that you're not big on the making friends thing...but you became friends with me, right?"

"Because you're delightful," Albedo reminds him, making Aether turn a suitably delightful pink as he laughs. "And, yes, my social battery is always quite perpetually low but if it's someone so important to you? Of course I would like to meet her."

"Wha- now I feel bad! I don't wanna force you," Aether whines, and Albedo chuckles, assuring him, "You are not forcing me to do anything, Aether. I really would love to meet her."

"Okay, if you say so...then, one day, alright?"

"One day. Now I shall leave you be. I'll see you tonight."

"Wait, you came all this way!" Aether exclaims, and Albedo doesn't know how to tell him that he lives less than five minutes away. "Wanna come in?"

This...might sound a little ridiculous, but Albedo thinks he's been spending a little bit too much time with Aether. It's making him feel so incredibly happy, and it's suspicious. Albedo doesn't feel like he deserves this level of happiness, not when he also feels a small twinge of pain in his chest when he's forced out of this curious happiness to remember that Aether will never like him the way Albedo hopelessly does.

Albedo needs to take a step back and compose himself a little bit before seeing Aether tonight.

"That's alright," Albedo says kindly as he gently lets go of Aether and steps away, not seeing the way Aether droops slightly. "I shall pick you up at 7:45. Goodbye."

"Hold on. Are...you okay?" Aether asks worriedly, warm eyes scanning Albedo's face. Albedo blinks, not wanting to lie but he wonders what gave it away.

"Why do you think I'm not?"

"You wear your emotions pretty clear on your face, you know?"

That's fascinating. It's quite rare for Albedo to feel strong bursts of emotion so it makes sense that no-one else has told him that before, but Aether...Aether makes him feel so many things that it's quite scary.

Albedo wants nothing more than to go home right now, and when Aether reaches lithe hands out like he's going to touch Albedo's face, he panics and lifts an arm to cover said face and steps further away, telling Aether, "Don't...worry about it, I just- have some work I need to do. I'll see you."

"Wait-!"

But Albedo's already gone, power-walking down the corridor and out the dorm complex with his fists clenched. He feels metal dig into his finger, and wonders why the hell he felt so proud of himself when buying these rings and doing that whole proposal façade but now he feels so stupid. What, does he really think Aether will keep wearing it after tonight? That even if he leaves this town one day to go to the many places he roams to, he'll keep it and remember the artist who once drew him with his entire heart?

He wouldn't. You think you're the first person to ever get him a gift? How utterly stupid of you, future doctor.

It's not even a good kind of stupid anymore.

Chapter Text

When Albedo gets home after that embarrassing ordeal of a visit, the first thing he does is flop face-first onto his bed.

And he stays there for the better part of an hour.

Does he have time for this, amidst all the piling art commissions and research type-ups he needs to do? Not in the slightest. But you know what, he doesn't care if he'll have to take two, three, even four years longer to finish his PhD - he's going to give himself a break today for the first time in years. Usually he'll use work to distract himself from emotions but he doesn't want to distract himself.

He wants to cry. He wants to scream. The biggest thing he wants to do is probably just...feel.

I can't even remember the last time I cried, Albedo thinks, turning his head to the side so he can breathe. He wonders if he even can cry anymore. The last time...it might have been when he was eighteen, holed up in his room clutching a letter...

"Don't think about that," Albedo scolds himself, forcing his mind to clear. He's fully prepared to wallow for the rest of the day, but then one singular thought flashes in his mind.

Klee.

"SHIT- I'M COMING," Albedo yells at no-one in particular as he purposefully falls off his bed (it's easier than getting up normally, trust him) and scrambles to grab his coat and keys. Albedo usually gets Kaeya to pick Klee up from school if he thinks he might be too late, but no Kaeya is going to come save him now. And hey, seeing Klee is perfect right now. She'll cheer Albedo up in seconds.

He also really wants to see Kaeya himself, that blue wizard who always somehow knows how and when to make Albedo feel better...he tries to think about the last time he saw him and it must have been that time he ambushed one of his café dates with Dr Zhongli, the same day Albedo posted those sketches of Aether. So about a week and a half ago...

It's strange. Albedo will gladly go months without seeing people, barely even remembering them, but Kaeya is such a constant in his life and Albedo thinks he really misses him.

Social interaction. The process of forming relationships. All today is proving is that it's all nothing short of a hassle.

After stepping on it in his car, he eventually pulls up in front of Klee's school. Luckily he's only a bit late, but he still hastily gets out and calls out for Klee before he's even stepped past the school gates. "Klee, honey? I'm...here..."

Albedo almost drops his car keys as he comes to a stop when he sees the most familiar of blues. A blue that happens to take the shape of a tall infuriatingly handsome man, laughing brightly as he holds Klee in his arms and taps her little nose. Both of them look at Albedo after his call, and he stares in disbelief at the sight of the two of them.

Two of my favourite people, Albedo thinks, just like he always does whenever he sees them together.

"Ah, there's Albedo!" Kaeya cheers, grinning when Klee calls out "ALBEDO!" and Kaeya carefully lets her back down on the ground where she immediately runs over to hug Albedo's leg. And for a moment, Albedo feels like he actually might burst into tears for a reason he doesn't even know as he pats Klee's head and the girl beams up at him.

"Why are you here?" Albedo asks Kaeya, voice hoarse as the guy steps over with arms crossed. Kaeya shrugs, his smile suddenly gone.

"Why can't I be here, rude little chihuahua who can't even greet me with a normal hello-"

Kaeya pauses when Albedo suddenly falls against him, latching his arms tight around Kaeya's middle as he squeezes his eyes shut. "O-Oh? What's this?"

"I missed you, you insufferable diva," Albedo mumbles into Kaeya's chest, and he can tell Kaeya knows that's not the only reason for this. But all Kaeya does is hug him back, petting his hair.

"You okay?" Kaeya asks him quietly, and Albedo has no clue how to answer. So he doesn't. Kaeya wordlessly accepts that, pulling Albedo even closer and Albedo feels the heavy weight on his chest finally begin to dissipate.

Then Klee calls out, "Klee wants to join hug too!" which snaps them both out of it, blinking as they pull away. Albedo watches fondly as Kaeya hikes Klee up onto his shoulders and says a bright, "Why don't we go to Albedo's place first?"

"Hugs there?"

"All the hugs!"

Klee nods eagerly, wrapping her little arms around Kaeya's head, and Kaeya grins at Albedo. "You heard the little lady, off you go, chauffeur!"

"You're terrible," Albedo snorts, shaking his head as they walk to his car and Kaeya teases, "Awe, but I thought you missed me, darling~"

"You are never going to let me forget that, are you?"

Somehow, they actually end up at Kaeya's apartment rather than Albedo's by the time it's six pm. The last few hours have felt pretty hazy but it's something to do with the fact that Kaeya took one look at the suit Albedo had ready to wear to the social and dragged Albedo and Klee right out of the place.

"Listen, Aether's outfits are always stellar and I am not about to let him be embarrassed by whatever the hell you dress yourself up with," Kaeya explains as he sifts through his (massive) wardrobe and Albedo sits on Kaeya's bed. Klee's trying on all of Kaeya's make-up and giggling at her reflection in the vanity.

Albedo raises an eyebrow. "Are my outfits that bad?"

"Okay, they aren't terrible, they're bland as hell but usually your colour coordination is on point - but you're no match for AETHER. Do you see how glorious that boy looks on a daily basis?"

Albedo definitely can't argue with that. But it's a little unfair because he's absolutely certain that Aether would still look spellbinding even if he was wearing a garbage bag.

But he thinks back to their first meeting, when Aether had dressed up and looked like nothing less than an angel and Albedo probably looked downright abysmal next to him. Albedo doesn't want anywhere near a repeat of that, for Aether's sake.

"What colour is he wearing? Probably gold, maybe some white or brown too," Kaeya answers his own question, humming as he sifts through his clothes. Albedo blinks when he gets a golden tie thrown at him. "Also, you know what's a shout? I bet your tattoos would match whatever Aether's wearing."

Albedo sighs. "I can't show those without being bare-chested - or at least bare-armed. And it's autumn."

"Another reason why I hate your stupid outfits, what's the point of having literally the prettiest art all over your body only to hide it all the time?"

"Kaeya, I've already told you, it's because-"

"NOW KLEE LOOKS PRETTY LIKE UNCLE KAEYA!" Klee cheers from where she's standing on a chair, cheeks stained with red blush and lip gloss smeared over her mouth. Kaeya bursts out laughing at the sight of her, dropping a whole mound of clothes on top of Albedo's head before he goes over to the little girl and picks her up.

"You look very pretty but how about I make you look even prettier?"

Klee claps excitedly, and Kaeya beams at her before shooting Albedo a narrowed-eye stare that says a firm 'try those on right now'. Albedo sighs, but obediently picks up the clothes and disappears into Kaeya's en suite.

Kaeya's given him a white three-piece tailcoat suit with gold buttons that perfectly match the gold tie, an aureate pocket square folded into the breast pocket, along with a white shirt.

"Kaeya, I am going to look like the rabbit from Alice in Wonderland," Albedo deadpans, but he shivers when Kaeya sings from outside the door, "Just put it on or I'll shove it on you~"

Albedo really does have no choice, so he puts on the clothes. It actually fits rather well, making Albedo think this must be something Kaeya had grown out of, and it definitely suits his habit of wearing a lot of clothing. There is no full-length mirror in the bathroom but he checks out his waist-up profile in the mirror above the sink and smooths down the suit, thinking that it isn't so bad. He feels a little bit like a train conductor from the 90s, but maybe that's the kind of look he should be going for?

He steps out of the en suite, and smiles when the first thing he sees is Kaeya crouching in front of Klee who's squeezing her eyes shut sweetly as Kaeya pats her eyelids with red eyeshadow. Her excessive make-up from before has been rubbed off and now her cheeks are touched up with a gentle rose and her lips have been carefully painted a pretty baby pink. Albedo has to take a photo to show Alice, and Zhongli, and literally anyone he interacts with for the next week.

"You done?" Kaeya asks Albedo, not yet looking away from Klee, and Albedo nods as he adjusts his cuffs. "I'll do your hair so just wait a- holy MOLY, Albedo, you look hot!"

"It is indeed a nice suit," Albedo agrees as Kaeya pats Klee's head before getting up to look over Albedo proudly, hand on his heart.

"I am so good at this. Aether isn't gonna be able to keep his hands off of you, dapper chihuahua."

Albedo flushes a deep red, trying (and failing) to say that is not what he's aiming for, but then Klee's gasping, "Albedo looks like a PRINCE!"

"So handsome, isn't he, Klee?" Kaeya sighs dreamily like a doting parent and Klee nods wildly. Albedo can only stand there, very awkward, having not even the slightest inkling how to reply to compliments like this. "Damn it, the fact that you don't ever give justice to that cute face of yours is an absolute crime. Alright, get over here, hair time!"

"Klee wants to do hair!"

"Klee can do Uncle Kaeya's hair, hm?"

Albedo always finds it so calming whenever Kaeya does his hair. He closes his eyes as Kaeya's nimble fingers run through his mop of locks, combing it into a neat side braid that ends in a small fluffy ponytail. "I swear, Albedo, your hair always feels like candyfloss."

"Dr Zhongli's compared me to a sheep because of it before," Albedo says morosely, making Kaeya howl in laughter.

"Gods, I love that man."

"Love seems a bit of a stretch," Albedo says with a raised eyebrow but Kaeya shakes his head.

"Nope. I love him. Smartest sweetest most perfect hottie to ever walk the earth, I'd propose to him tomorrow if he wanted me to."

Albedo rolls his eyes, yet he's also a bit alarmed by the fact that Kaeya doesn't sound like he's joking. "And he would not want you to."

Kaeya shrugs. "That's okay. We can just be boyfriends forever."

"You aren't even boyfriends now."

It isn't long until Albedo's ready, after Kaeya pats some blush into his apparently 'way too pale' cheeks and sticks a tiny gold star sticker under Albedo's eye (for fun, Kaeya says, and Albedo's missed him so much that he just lets the guy do whatever he wants), and then it's time for Albedo to be on his way. Kaeya smiles at them from the doorway as Albedo takes hold of Klee's hand once they're outside, waving goodbye. "Have a nice night, both of you!"

Klee pouts and looks up at Albedo. "Can Klee and Uncle Kaeya come to Albedo's party?"

Albedo smiles at her. "I wish, but it's not a party. It is like a very boring...meeting. Klee and Uncle Kaeya wouldn't like it."

"But we can all play together another time, yeah?" Kaeya says, and Klee nods excitedly, beaming when Kaeya ruffles her hair. "That's a good girl."

"Thanks for tonight," Albedo tells Kaeya quietly as Klee bounds over to Albedo's car. Kaeya sniffs, shrugging as he mutters, "No need for thanks. Always wanted to give your sorry ass a makeover anyway."

"I know. It's just...I really do need to thank you. For all the times you effortlessly cheer me up without even ever asking questions..."

Albedo is only trying to convey his gratitude, but he feels a chill run down his spine when he notices that Kaeya's cheery disposition from today has disappeared. Completely. His aura is spiky with thorns, cold as ice, as Kaeya glares at Albedo behind his bangs. Albedo can't move, rooted to the spot. He can't even open his mouth to ask what's wrong.

"Yeah, well, I'm not a mind-reader. You just got lucky that I showed up," Kaeya suddenly snaps, voice bordering on harsh. "You'd think after six years, you might start actually telling me when you need help or just comfort. You think I'm not sick of this one-sided sitch?"

Albedo blinks in surprise, eyes wide. "...what? Kaeya, where- where did this come from?"

There is a slight crumble in Kaeya's cold front, his gaze shifting away as the blue of his irises brim with sadness like a deep sea, but then he composes himself.

"Contrary to popular opinion, I hate seeing you upset. And no, I don't care if you won't tell me why, but were you gonna deal with it yourself if I didn't show up at Klee's school? Then you have the fucking audacity to tell me you miss me, for the first time ever may I add, when you haven't messaged me even once since we last saw each other. You know I wasn't contacting you on purpose to see if you'd reach out to me at all but nope, absolute radio silence."

"But...but I don't want to disturb you," Albedo just about manages to say, voice quivering. He has no clue what to do. He's never had Kaeya be mad at him before, and it hurts more than he ever thought it would. "I- you know I'm not one to initiate interaction and you- you're Kaeya Alberich. Mondstadt's sweetheart, number one eligible bachelor, all kinds of things, so...! You probably have better things to do...better people to be with..."

That was definitely somehow the wrong thing to say, because Kaeya's eyes widen, periwinkle set alight in almost pure fury. "Oh my fucking gods. Get out of here, right now."

"What-"

"Just go, go to your damn social! Say hi to Aether from me, you bastard."

"Kae-"

Albedo flinches when the door gets slammed in his face. He stands there for a moment longer, completely wrapped up in confusion and disbelief, before he raises his head and reaches out a hand to knock on the door. But then he remembers the way Kaeya looked at him, the man's teeth gritted and eyes flashing with rage, and he quickly pulls his hand back out of fear.

Of course this is happening. Of course Albedo is losing the first friend he's ever wanted to keep for a reason that he doesn't even know.

He numbly walks over to his car, where Klee is already in the passenger seat and waving at him. Seeing her smiling face does raise his spirits a little, but he still feels sick to his stomach. Will he really be up to this now? Should he cancel?

No. Gods no, he's done enough wallowing, he doesn't deserve to do any more. Kaeya probably doesn't want to talk to him right now but tomorrow, Albedo will do everything he possibly can to make this right.

Until tomorrow.

"Are you excited to meet Aether, Klee?" Albedo asks Klee who gasps, staring up at Albedo with sparkling eyes.

"Is that the gold pretty person you told me about? Klee thinks he sounds like a fairy!"

"He definitely looks like one," Albedo laughs, only faring to make Klee look even more excited, and Albedo tries his hardest not to think about Kaeya as he starts to drive.

They get to Aether's dorm complex too early. Albedo is never ever quite on time to anywhere - it's always late or early.

"Klee wants to go outside," Klee whines after ten minutes of waiting in the car and Albedo feels like he could do with some fresh air too. So he unlocks the car and they step outside, Klee running circles around him for a little while until she makes grabby hands at him and Albedo smiles, reaching down to lift her up. He laughs while he twirls her in the air and Klee yells like she's on a roller-coaster, when a familiar hurried click-clack of heels cuts through the quiet night (well, quiet bar Klee and Albedo), and the two look to see where it's coming from.

Which leads to Albedo quite unceremoniously almost dropping Klee.

Klee goes completely silent as Albedo stares, both of them in a trance, when Aether lights up at the sight of them and waves. "Albedo!"

Klee pats quickly at Albedo's shoulders and Albedo, still unable to take his eyes off of Aether, slowly bends down to lower her to the ground. He watches Aether blink in surprise as Klee runs right up to him then stops a few feet away, clasping her hands behind her back before she says a shy, "You are really really pretty, mister."

Aether's eyes widen, his ears turning red. Then he smiles so bright and his golden eyes fill with touched warmth. "So are you, sweetie. Are you Klee?"

Klee nods spritely, very happy about the fact that Aether knows his name which makes all her shyness go away as she runs closer and takes Aether's hand. Aether laughs, squeezing her hand. "Are you coming with us to the social?"

Klee frowns as she shakes her head. "No. Albedo says it will be too boring for me."

"Did he now?" Aether asks amusedly, raising his eyes to look at Albedo with a smirk on his face. Albedo can't respond to the goading, though, not when he's been stuck in the same place for the last five minutes, unable to move as all he's done is stare.

Aether seems to notice because pink dashes across his face while his smirk fades into a smaller shier smile, then he turns back to Klee. "Do you want to wait for us in the car? I have to say some very boring things to Albedo."

Klee pouts. "But Klee wants to talk to Aether more! Klee thought Aether would look like a fairy in real life but Aether looks like a prince and a fairy."

"A fairy prince?"

Klee gasps and nods excitedly. "YES, EXACTLY! A fairy prince!"

Aether giggles, petting Klee's head with a promise that they'll definitely talk a lot from now on before she runs off to roll herself into the backseat of the car. And that leaves just two, with Albedo still very heavily malfunctioning on the spot which only gets worse as Aether moves closer to him, each step leading to a lower probability that Albedo will survive the night.

"You look...woah," Aether tells him, voice quiet but so laden with awe as his sparkling eyes wash over Albedo's outfit, but all Albedo can think is, says you, you beautiful fairy prince who can only be from another world.

If Albedo knew what make-up being 'on point' meant, then he's sure Aether's would be. His golden eyes are outlined with a soft mellow peach, then eyelids painted a soft coral with a light halo of gold glitter, all of it together making Albedo think of the prettiest sunset. His lips are touched with a delicate pink gloss, so kissable, and it's the first time that Albedo thinks to himself that he wants to kiss them. He wants to so bad that his mouth goes dry.

Sunset gold seems to be Aether's theme. At first Albedo thought he was wearing a dress, but he's just wearing an off-shoulder peach shirt with a faded orange wrap skirt cinched at his waist using a gold corset belt, open at a slit that shows his leg clothed in fitted white jeans. A silk aureate stole is wrapped around his shoulders and arms and that's when Albedo spends five minutes alone just staring at Aether's hair because it's down. It's down. This is not a drill, Aether's hair which is always in a very perpetual state of 'braid' is DOWN.

The sunlight strands tumble over Aether's shoulders in perfect waves, ending even further than his waist and Albedo wonders, if he touches it, will his fingers go right through but feel rejuvenated by warmth just like real sunlight? Or will his skin and the aureate strands meet, his fingers skimming down the soft gold that feels as light as clouds, curling itself gently around Albedo's hand who wishes it would never let go?

I think I'm drunk, Albedo decides dreamily when he knows very well that he hasn't drank a drop of alcohol in weeks.

"Albedo," Aether says shyly, gaze lowering to the ground. "Ah...you- you've been staring for a really long time..."

"I don't have my sketchbook," Albedo blurts out, voice hoarse and rash and Aether looks back up in surprise.

"What-"

"This- this is the only time I haven't brought it somewhere, the only time, and it was such a big mistake."

Aether blinks a few times, startled, before he seems to realise what Albedo's talking about. A massive smile spills over his face that he tries to bite down on but soon laughter is bubbling out of him, loud and sweet and Albedo lives for it even if he has no clue why Aether would be laughing.

"S-Sorry!" Aether says quickly when he notices Albedo's morose expression, covering his mouth to stifle himself for good before he reaches out to press gentle fingers against the backs of Albedo's hands. "Hey. Are you really looking this sad just because you didn't bring your sketchbook? We can go get it!"

Albedo's about to shake his head but for some reason he can't quite bring himself to, and he spends a good minute opening his mouth trying to say something that he doesn't even know how to put into words. Meanwhile Aether, beautiful empathetic Aether steps closer and takes hold of his hands properly. "Albedo-"

"E-Everything is going wrong today," Albedo chokes out as he squeezes his eyes shut, feeling so pathetic. "And everything's my fault, and - here you are looking so gorgeous that it's frying my brain and I can't even simply put on a happy face to take you to the social like I'm supposed to and I-"

Albedo's breath hitches when a warm hand rests on his cheek and he opens his glassy eyes to see Aether watching him with sad eyes, his thumb brushing gently over Albedo's skin. "We don't need to go, Albedo. Not if it'll make you any more unhappy, okay? I promise I won't be upset at all."

"You're so wonderful," Albedo murmurs, in disbelief that someone like Aether exists. He'll always be in disbelief about that. "But, no. This is clearly my punishment. I must go to this social even when my emotions are all over this place and sit through hundreds of uninteresting anecdotes to make up for all the terrible things I have done."

"Hey, no, I'm sure you don't need punishment," Aether argues with a frown. But then he chuckles, "Hurts a little that you think spending time with me for a night is a punishment, though."

Albedo's eyes grow wide, and he quickly shakes his head. "No- no, that is not what I meant in the slightest, I-"

"Then let me spend the night trying to make you feel better, okay?" Aether tells him, voice soft, before he lets go of Albedo just to wrap his arms around him. Albedo takes in a deep breath to calm himself down and nods, falling so gratefully into the hug that Aether pulls him into. Aether smells like cinnamon...vanilla...

"We probably shouldn't keep Klee waiting," Albedo says eventually, reluctantly pulling away and Aether looks a little dazed but he manages to send Albedo a dazzling smile. "I didn't say it clearly earlier but, you look absolutely divine, Aether."

Aether grins, cheeks turning pink. "Why thank you, kind sir. Heh, I really wanted to make a good impression on all your sciency acquaintances so I asked Diluc for some help...though I drew the line when he tried to put my hair into one of his signature high ponytails. Those things are so damn hard to maintain when your hair's this long! I don't know how he does it!"

"Y-Yes, neither do I."

"You look super dapper too!" Then Aether winks. "And don't worry, I'll take a few photos if you wanna draw me that bad."

"That would be very appreciated," Albedo says entirely honestly, because he might draw Aether from memory half the time but he has to give this outfit the right amount of justice it deserves.

"Why is Klee here, by the way?"

"Oh, I just need to drop her home, it's on the way to the social if that is alright?"

"Yeah, 'course! Let's get going, then."

They get into the car, Albedo fondly telling Klee (who's lying across the backseats and already making a new treasure) to put her seatbelt on. Then Albedo, spurred on by the reassuring smile Aether sends him, starts the car and drives.

Trust Dr Ningguang to have pulled out all the stops. The venue hall is massive, with tables full of plates of refreshments and an eight-piece orchestra playing a beautiful calming piece from a platform to the far left. More people than Albedo thinks he has ever seen at any sort of gathering are at this social, talking calmly between themselves as they hold champagne flutes.

"W-Wow," Aether says nervously as they stand outside the large doors opening up to the social, no-one having noticed them yet. Albedo offers him his arm and Aether immediately takes it, wrapping his hands around it tightly. "I've...I've never been to a party like this before...are my clothes too...colourful?"

"Hush. Everyone is going to think you look delightful. They'll wish they were as colourful as you," Albedo assures him and Aether snickers, giving his arm a grateful squeeze.

"You're being too good to me again."

"Not at all-"

"Aye, Albedo!" a chipper voice calls, and Albedo turns to see Dr Ningguang's wife walking over to them, looking as sprite as ever. Albedo's jaw drops slightly in shock.

"Beidou? My goodness, you're here too?" Albedo asks in awe, holding out a hand that Beidou shakes wildly with a grin.

"Yep! Thought the wifey might like my company - is what I'm saying but she'd probably be happier if I wasn't here to mess things up, ha! Though I'm more here to steal the food, anyway."

Beidou then sighs disappointedly, tutting, "Promised her no shenanigans so gotta keep up my end of the bargain..."

Beidou is an absolute gem. She barely comes to any socials but if Dr Ningguang is hosting them then she might show up, and Albedo adores her. She doesn't know a single thing about science but is wonderfully street-smart, and everything is more fun when she's here. Albedo still remembers a social a year ago where Beidou somehow managed to make half of these refined scientists get on their feet and join her in a line dance. Albedo's quite disappointed that she's promised her wife that she won't get up to anything tonight.

"Oho, and who's this?" Beidou asks, tone turning silky soft and flirty as she floats over to Aether and kisses the back of his hand, making Aether burn bright red and squeak out, "H-Hello!"

"Don't go stealing my husband, Beidou," Albedo chuckles, and Beidou stares at Aether in renewed interest.

"Husband? Damn, so Ningguang wasn't lying, good for you!" Beidou cheers as she slams Albedo's back good-heartedly and Albedo tries not to choke. "What's your name, lad?"

"Aether," Aether says brightly once he's composed himself, and Beidou smiles.

"Suits you for sure. Well, hope you both enjoy your stay!"

Beidou walks off whistling a jaunty tune, and Albedo regards Aether, who still looks a little dazed, in apologetic amusement.

"Sorry, Beidou is great but she is quite forward," Albedo says, but Aether shakes his head.

"No, she was lovely! She definitely made me feel a lot less nervous. I think...I can do this now!"

"That's good," Albedo smiles, because Aether is at his best when he's in his element and social gatherings definitely seem like his thing.

And as the night goes on, Albedo sees that he's definitely right about that.

For every statement about how Aether and Albedo look good together, Aether gets a hundred more compliments for his outfit. Aether always grins and tells the person that they look just as great which gets him many starry eyes and blushes in return. Albedo feels as if the people here don't get complimented for things other than their work very often, and it's nice that Aether is filling that void.

The best thing ever is seeing someone side-eyeing Aether, most probably judging his outfit and all his neverending brightness, and - though Albedo would much rather pummel them - all he needs to do is steer Aether over them and watch vengefully as Aether instantly charms them to bits with a single smile or word. Suckers.

It's also wonderful that Aether carries all the conversations. Albedo has barely even had to say a full sentence. All his mouth is doing is drinking quite an alarming amount of champagne since Aether is always too busy socialising to take a drink from the workers who pass by with flutes on silver platters.

"I can't believe you've been keeping this delight from us for so long, Albedo!"

"How did you two meet?" Professor Hu Tao asks excitedly, many other scientists listening in apprehension, and Aether and Albedo share a thinly-veiled panicked look. Albedo hesitates for a second, but then he leans close and whispers in Aether's ear, "Just say the truth. We can sugar-coat a little."

"A-Alright," Aether whispers back, turning peculiarly pink, so Albedo is left amazed when Aether regains his composure in seconds and paints on a delightful smile for the others, already in story-telling mode. What a wonder.

"This might sound crazy, but Albedo first ever saw me online," Aether says with a chuckle. "I bet you're all thinking online dating but no, he found my Instagram and-"

"I was enchanted. I thought he was the most gorgeous person I had ever seen," Albedo says softly (and one hundred percent truthfully), and Aether smiles shyly at him as the people around them seem to collectively melt.

"According to him, he was struck by inspiration. And in the morning, I found myself tagged in the prettiest drawing ever of me."

There's a collective gasp now.

"How romantic!"

"Albedo, you can draw?" a scientist asks in surprise, and Albedo doesn't even have time to say yes before someone calls out, "Don't you recall the mural Dr Zhongli is always talking about? Albedo painted it!"

"Oh my stars!"

Aether rides on the waves of everyone's buzzing enthusiasm at the new topic and takes out his phone, asking excitedly, "Would you like to see the drawing?"

"Of course!"

Albedo feels a little nervous about that but Aether shows them a cropped screenshot instead of the post from the actual account, so his double life is preserved for a little longer. It also makes him quite shy, seeing all these acknowledged scientists looking awed by his art when they all know him for something so very different.

"My goodness, that is gorgeous," Professor Hu Tao gushes in awe, eyes twinkling, and Dr Ningguang says, "I have heard that it really does help a scientist to be able to draw."

"We got in touch after that. It wasn't long before we started going out and, one thing came after another. Now here we are," Aether beams, and Albedo wishes he could be just as happy, but the way Aether just said that...it stings a little. The fact that in another life, it really could be that easy. But instead Albedo has to go through all this turmoil, withering all by himself as he watches Aether thrive in every kind of way because he doesn't need someone like Albedo.

Ah. This night might be harder than he expected.

"Aether, I am just going to go to the restroom," Albedo quietly tells Aether who blinks at him, concerned. Albedo must be wearing his emotions on his sleeve again.

"Do you want me to come with you?"

"No, no. You keep charming everyone. They all love you," Albedo says fondly, and it's completely true, seeing all these scientists branching out of their polished images to talk animatedly with Aether has been a lovely thing to witness. Even Dr Ningguang has a mild gentleness about her while conversing with Aether.

But Aether still doesn't look convinced. "You're sure?"

"Definitely."

"...alright. Then see you soon, hubby," Aether teases, and Albedo raises an eyebrow at him but freezes when Aether leans in to kiss his cheek. Albedo stares with wide eyes, chest growing uncomfortably tight as his heart threatens to leap out his chest. And Aether, terrible fiendish Aether just grins shyly at him, cheeks pink, before he turns back to the other scientists.

All Albedo can do is jerkily walk over to the restroom and try his best not to die on the way, grabbing a flute of champagne to down. The faint burn of alcohol down his throat is nothing compared to the way his heart is currently aflame.

He wants to kill me. He knows what he's doing and he is sincerely completely trying to kill me, Albedo thinks frantically as he stares at the mirror, hands white-knuckling either side of the sink. Gods, Aether's kiss had even left a faint glossy pink lip-print on his cheek- Albedo cannot do this anymore.

He bites his lip, before shaking his head and checking the time on his phone. Gosh, he's already been here for two and a half hours. That's far longer than he usually lasts, so...Aether wouldn't mind if Albedo asks if they can leave now, right? Or would that be a horrible thing, and he'd be depriving Aether of a night he's been looking forward to? Aether definitely looks like he's enjoying himself...

But I can't do this any longer, Albedo thinks morosely, hands clenching into fists. I'm sorry, Aether.

Albedo splashes water onto his face and dries off before leaving the restroom with every intention to find Aether and ask him if it might be alright if they could leave. Hopefully Aether had also forethought this, knowing Albedo's dislike for these events, and won't resent Albedo too much.

He catches a flash of sunset gold and sees Aether at the refreshments table, his back to Albedo. Albedo sighs in relief at the sight of him and goes over. "Aether? I was wondering if-"

"Alrero!" Aether exclaims in surprise, sounding muffled and Albedo is very confused until Aether turns around with his eyes wide and cheeks stuffed with shrimp. Albedo stares blankly (though he's really just thinking about how Aether looks like an adorable squirrel) as Aether quickly swallows the shrimp and clasps his hands together behind his back sheepishly. "Hehe...hi?"

"You are really something," Albedo says, a small smile quirking up his lips when Aether giggles. But he quickly stops when a burp interrupts him and he slams a hand over his mouth, squeaking (though he still sounds like he's laughing), "S-Sorry!"

"No need for an apology, it's a normal bodily reaction."

"Yeah, you're right! I love when people say stuff like that."

Albedo nods, amused when Aether goes right back to feeding himself with more of the food. He holds out one of each new thing to Albedo first and Albedo happily eats it all, though he derides, "Am I your poison taste-tester?"

"Duh! Klee called me a fairy prince, princes can't be going about dying," Aether says mock-haughtily, sticking out his tongue at Albedo who smiles. "It's really cute that you told her about me, though..."

"Of course I did. I tell her many things. She is like my tiny ball of emotional support," Albedo says, which has Aether bursting into laughter. "And I definitely need emotional support for how beautiful you are."

"Y-You're joking, right?"

"Perhaps."

Aether laughs again, sunshine bright as he takes Albedo's hands and Albedo follows with a slight stumble as Aether spins them around. "Just come dance with me, you flirty dork."

Albedo blinks. "Dance? No-one dances at these events." Except for last year's social with Beidou. "There's not even any space."

"But I wanna dance! What's the point of this beautiful orchestra playing gorgeous music if we can't dance?" Aether whines, tugging at Albedo. "And they've got a really pretty garden out back - let's dance there!"

Albedo frowns. He can't understand in the slightest why Aether suddenly wants to dance, when he had just been talking it up with everyone in this hall. "...are you sure you want to do that? With me?"

Aether seems to get what Albedo's hinting at, and his eyes soften as he squeezes Albedo's hands. "Hey. Didn't I tell you I was gonna make you feel better tonight? I don't think you've had a bad time so far, but I can kinda tell that being with all these people is getting to you. My social battery's starting to run low too so I just wanna be with you! Let's go get some fresh air and have some nice down-time, just the two of us."

...wow.

If Albedo hadn't thought Aether perfect before, he definitely does now.

"Lead the way," Albedo murmurs, hearts in his eyes. Aether beams and pulls Albedo over to the back doors leading to the garden.

Aether is right, the garden really is beautiful. But Albedo has something even more beautiful in his arms, his hands on Aether's waist and Aether's hands resting gently on his shoulders as they sway to the soft music filtering out of the doors, steps light. For some bizarre reason, Albedo isn't panicking at all - he actually has never felt more at peace.

"You look happy," Aether teases though his voice is gentle and Albedo nods, closing his eyes and resting his forehead ever so lightly against Aether's. He (stupidly) hopes Aether can't tell.

"I am. Thank you for tonight."

"That's okay," Aether murmurs, squeezing Albedo's shoulders. "And I'm always here for you, even if we don't have a fancy social to go to."

"Thank you," Albedo whispers again, throat closing up and amazingly, he thinks he feels himself tearing up a little. One of Aether's hands lift off his shoulder, so warm fingers can brush over Albedo's cheek warmly. Albedo finds himself leaning into the touch like a cat. "A-Aether, I..."

"Yeah?" Aether sounds breathless.

"What...what do you do when you upset a friend, and you don't know why?"

Aether's hand pauses its ministrations. Albedo feels confused when he sees Aether's eyes widen in surprise, losing a tiny bit of their shine. "Aether?"

"S-Sorry!" Aether says quickly, shaking his head before he bites his lip. "Ah, I just...I just thought you were gonna say something else, heh."

"What did you think I was going to say?" Albedo asks, curious, but Aether shakes his head as his hand cups Albedo's cheek fully.

"Don't worry. You think you upset a friend?"

Albedo hangs his head, nodding dismally. "I am usually quite indifferent to people. But hurting one is something I never want to do no matter who they are, and they are a friend, a friend I adore so much."

"A friend...that you want to be more than just a friend...?" Aether asks carefully, eyebrows furrowed, but his eyes widen when Albedo slowly nods. Something is in those golden eyes, something that almost seems like hurt similar to what he saw in Kaeya's eyes, but it can't be.

"Yes. I think of him as my best friend, but I am not his, even though I would very much like to be," Albedo murmurs as he hangs his head again, not seeing the way Aether's jaw goes slack. "He has too many friends for that, but he is one of my only. But I do not mind this because I never wish to monopolise someone."

"Okay...okay, I think I get it now. Wow, I make way too many misunderstandings when it comes to you," Aether says with a weak laugh, sounding windswept, and Albedo frowns but Aether keeps talking before Albedo can ask what he means. "Is this...Kaeya?"

Albedo feels a thrum of pride. "You are fascinatingly perceptive as always."

"You think you upset Kaeya? But he- he never gets upset! He's like the chillest guy ever..."

Albedo nods miserably. "That is why this is so awful, Aether. He yelled at me. He looked...he looked so angry...!"

"Oh, Albedo," Aether frowns, and his arms reach out to wrap around Albedo's head and pull it towards him. Albedo rests his forehead on Aether's chest, eyes squeezing shut as he grips onto Aether's belt like it's a lifeline. "Hey, hey, it's alright. You're completely sure you don't know what you did?"

"I think it's something to do with me maybe...thinking too highly of him? But that doesn't sound right and other than that, I have not the slightest idea," Albedo mutters, and Aether's arms tighten around his head.

"Well, the only advice I can give you is to go to him and let him explain in any way he wants. Let him yell at you or throw chairs but just make sure you listen, okay? Make sure you let Kaeya know you've understood, that you're hearing him, and do everything you can to let him be sure that you won't do it again."

Oh. Yes, that makes sense. Albedo will listen with all his heart, and do anything to keep Kaeya by his side.

"I was better off without any friends if this is what I was going to do with them," Albedo scoffs but Aether hushes him, patting down his hair.

"You don't mean that."

Albedo does, but he decides to stay quiet and let Aether pet him. He's so incredibly warm, heat radiating from every fibre of his body as his hands thread through Albedo's hair and lull him into a gentle state of calm. He is everything Albedo wants, everything Albedo can't have, and Albedo hates himself for finding so much comfort in someone who would never be meant for him.

But for now, Albedo decides to tuck those thoughts away. His mind has been through too much today and here Aether is, being beautiful in every way, and he's giving all his attention to Albedo. Even if it's temporary, even momentary, Albedo will milk it in its entirety.

"Prepare yourself," is the only warning Albedo gives. Aether blinks when Albedo shakes his head out of Aether's hold and takes one of his hands, snaking his other arm around Aether's waist.

"Why, wha- WHAT- ALBEDO!" Aether yelps when suddenly he's swept into a low dip, inches from the floor with his arms scrabbling desperately to wrap around Albedo's shoulders. Albedo watches fondly, eyes soft and smile uncontrollable as Aether's luscious hair splays over the grass, dark green blanketing the eternal gold, and Aether stares up at Albedo with wide eyes and a fierce red blush complimenting his awed, confused expression.

"You- you're DIPPING me?!"

"When else would I get the chance to dip the most gorgeous person I have ever seen?" Albedo teases him as if his reasoning is obvious, referring back to what he said when they were telling the story of how they met, and Aether's eyes widen even more. Then he grins like a beacon of light, pulling Albedo down even further so their foreheads press together which isn't so great for Albedo's spine but it's worth it as he stares into Aether's eyes, letting them drown him in lakes of gold. 

"I'm glad you're feeling better," Aether tells him softly, voice hushed to suit their proximity. Albedo is glad too as he gently pulls Aether back upright and this time Aether presses even closer, curling his arms around Albedo's neck. Now it's like they're dancing in an embrace.

"All thanks to you. You are a fallen star and I am but a scraggled lowly wench basking in your light," Albedo mumbles despondently. Aether bursts into surprised giggles and pats Albedo's head so he can rest it in the crook of Aether's warm neck.

"Alright, Shakespeare, definitely no more champagne for you tonight."

Albedo doesn't mind that because he is indeed starting to feel dizzy. But him and Aether still stay like that for an hour longer, swaying wordlessly, and there is no other place Albedo would rather be.

Chapter Text

The first thing Albedo does the next day is go to the florist's and buy a bouquet of four dozen blue roses.

The second thing he does is walk across the street carrying (or struggling to carry) said roses, completely ignoring all the looks he's getting because he is a man on a mission. When he finally gets where he needs to be, he takes in a deep breath, then knocks on the door.

It takes a little while but soon enough the door opens to reveal a sleepy-looking Kaeya, still looking amazing in his infuriatingly handsome way even with messy hair and sleep-sand in his eyes. But Albedo can't bring himself to be annoyed as he holds out the roses and says, as sincerely as he can, "I'm sorry."

Kaeya stares at the roses in surprise, before he rubs his eyes a few times, stares again, squints, then peeks over the roses at Albedo who is trying his very best to look even more apologetic than he is. Which is already a lot.

But Kaeya scoffs, turning his head to the side. "Shut up. You don't even know what you're sorry for."

"That's true, I admit that. But if you tell me, I will do anything to fix it," Albedo pleads. "Please, Kaeya. I know, I am terrible with everything social so that means I am most probably the worst friend in the world, but at the very least I know that you are too special to me to lose."

Kaeya does look back at him then, seemingly taken by the word 'special'. His eye is still narrowed but it's sparkling, and Albedo keeps holding the roses out no matter how much his arms are starting to ache.

A few minutes pass, but Kaeya seems to eventually take pity on him as he sighs and opens the door wider.

"Stop looking like a kicked chihuahua and come in."

Albedo watches silently from where he's taken a seat on Kaeya's bed as Kaeya puts the flowers in a vase on his windowsill, smiling softly as he fluffs them up and smells them. But then the smile fades, and he goes over to Albedo, sitting cross-legged on the bed so their knees touch. Neither of them talk for a good while, and Albedo feels like the silence is strangling him.

"Kaeya, I-"

"If you find out that your best friend doesn't even think he's your best friend," Kaeya finally begins, making Albedo look up at him with wide eyes, "wouldn't you be upset?"

Oh no. Albedo feels his hands start to tremble, and he hastily presses them together. "You think I'm your best friend?"

"Of course I do, you fucking idiot," Kaeya snaps at him, which Albedo deserves. "But it makes sense now, why you keep me in the dark all the time and barely try to contact me when you don't even seem to think we're that close."

"No," Albedo insists, shaking his head. "No, Kaeya, that is not true, I- I have always thought of you as my best friend, but I didn't think I was yours. We met when we were seventeen, when I was home-schooled and had no friends while you were so obviously popular. You are still so popular, so present and dazzling and you could befriend anyone. I always thought the only reason you like me is because I don't...push. Because I don't ask questions, and I don't know anything, so that lets you be comfortable around me."

"Maybe that was true six years ago," Kaeya says in disbelief, "but not anymore! I love you, you little mad scientist, and if it's you, I don't care if you know everything about me, you're the first person to ever actually make me want to open up."

That both alleviates and puts on even more weight on Albedo's heart. "R-Really?"

"Yes. And I just want you to let me in a bit more too, and let me be there for you when you need someone. I wanna be sure that if we're ever gonna be apart, we'd still be able to hold onto this friendship."

"I'm terrible at friends, and I always thought I didn't need them," Albedo admits, which makes Kaeya's face screw up, "but I would do anything not to lose you."

"...ugh. You sweet-talking bastard," Kaeya grumbles, even as his eyes soften, and Albedo smiles.

"It's just honesty."

Kaeya rolls his eyes, but he opens up his arms. Albedo smiles bigger as he falls into his best friend and they both flop back onto the bed, hugging each other tight. They stay like that for a little while, until their holds loosen and they're just lying there comfortably in each other's warm embrace and Albedo's almost certain that Kaeya's gone back to sleep. That doesn't matter, though. Albedo would gladly stay here for a very long time.

"I get insecure sometimes, being your friend," Kaeya suddenly says, debunking Albedo's hypothesis. "I keep thinking I like you way more than you like me. Which sucks because yeah, like you said, I'm Kaeya Alberich. Everyone loves me!"

"I am included in that everyone, Kaeya," Albedo affirms, so upset that Kaeya has been thinking this. "I love you lots. I will get better at showing it, I promise. So many times I think to myself 'I want to contact Kaeya but he is probably busy' but I won't think that anymore! I will just get in touch with you whenever I want from now on! You will probably become very annoyed by it."

"Are you kidding? That's exactly what I'm asking for, you big nerd," Kaeya laughs, raising Albedo's spirits through the roof. Kaeya smacks a big kiss onto his forehead that has Albedo grimacing, though he actually finds it quite nice. "And look...I gotta apologise too. I know my outburst probably seemed really out of nowhere but I've been thinking about it a long time. I usually try to give you the benefit of the doubt because I know we're super different people in most ways but, I just want you to know that I'm here. Whenever you need me and whenever you don't."

"You have nothing to apologise for," Albedo tells him, shaking his head. "It was good that you tested this aspect of our friendship. Now I will know how to be better."

"That's my chihuahua," Kaeya says fondly, giving Albedo a noogie which is not so pleasant. "Now, now. Are you finally gonna tell me why you were upset yesterday?"

Albedo seizes up immediately. Kaeya pats his hair, adding, "You don't have to. I just think it might help."

"It's nothing new," Albedo murmurs, hiding his face in Kaeya's shirt. "I just...I just like him so much, Kaeya...I like him even more than I thought and it hurts."

"Albedo," Kaeya sighs, squeezing Albedo's head. "Why does it hurt?"

"He is a beauty with the aura of the stars. He's not meant for someone like me. He's meant to share his wonder with everyone, and then maybe one day he will meet someone just as beautiful and only they can have his heart."

Kaeya's quiet for a short moment, before he says bitterly, "I hate it when you say stuff like that. You act like this about me, too. When you called me fucking 'Mondstadt's sweetheart' yesterday, I wanted to laugh in your face."

"But it's true, Kaeya. Everyone in this city adores you. Both of you. Dr Zhongli, too. It's just my luck that these are the type of people I get attached to..."

Kaeya groans loudly, and Albedo holds back a yelp when Kaeya suddenly bunches his hair into his hands and pulls, hard. "EVERYONE ADORES YOU TOO, YOU! MORON! But that's not even the point. I know you don't hate who you are. But I just hate how you're so weird and indifferent about yourself when, honestly, you're a really good person, Albedo."

"Not good enough," Albedo mumbles. "The best chemical reactions are those that have reactants that match each other in quantity but Aether and me, if we were to be together, I would be a limiting reactant. I would not be enough. I would hold him back. I would only serve to make him shine even less."

"Okay, I remember literally nothing from secondary school Chemistry classes but I swear gold is like...the least reactive substance, or metal, whatever," Kaeya argues and Albedo pulls his head up to raise an eyebrow at him, wondering where he's going with this. "So you know how I see it? Everyone likes gold, because it's shiny and pretty and makes people happy. But only very few things will ever react with it. And I, personally, think that you're doing the impossible."

"I'm...what?"

"You're reacting with gold! Think about it, you dense lump of chalk, you and Aether have something special. Muse-artist, romantic motorbike rides, fake marriage, heart-to-hearts? Also, seriously, if you see the way Aether lights up whenever your name gets brought up...all I'm seeing is chalk and gold reacting."

"Chalk and gold don't react, Kaeya," Albedo says quietly even as he bites down on an uncontrollable smile, and Kaeya tsks.

"Ugh, forget science then, now it's magic!"

"You're magic," Albedo laughs into Kaeya's chest as he hugs him tighter. "You're ridiculous and you don't know Chemistry in the slightest but you never fail to make everything better because you're magic."

"As much as I adore these backhanded compliments, I'm not magic, my darling chihuahua," Kaeya disagrees, smiling fondly as he ruffles Albedo's hair. "That's just what best friends do."

"Then I am the luckiest man alive."

"Wow, I'm really starting to see why Aether gets so flustered by all the shit you say," Kaeya snickers, pulling Albedo into a headlock. "You honest little thing. You know what, I've been meaning to find a reason to throw a party for a while now and us officially becoming best friends forever is totally reason enough."

"Since when do you need a reason to throw a party?" Albedo asks dryly, and Kaeya flicks his forehead.

"Your job is to invite Zhongli, and that little Xiao guy who's obsessed with Venti!"

"Wha- when did I even say I was going to this party?"

"Awe come on, it's in your honour! Give me one hour of your time, and Jean and Lisa and love of your life Aether's gonna be there~" Kaeya sings, and Albedo grimaces a little at how easily that's convincing him. If Aether made a social so good, then he'd probably make a college party wonderful...

But then Albedo realises something. "He wouldn't spend any time with me, not when he'll probably know every other person there."

Kaeya sighs. "I highly doubt that but fine...then hang with Zhongli and Xiao, and me! I know Lisa's been missing you too."

"I see Lisa almost every day at the library."

"Lisa always misses you! And she keeps complaining that you keep reading books instead of talking to her!"

"Wha- what else am I supposed to do in a library...?

But Albedo does feel his resolve chipping by the second. But it's not like he's really going to say no, not when he's in the state of mind of 'I must do everything Kaeya asks of me in case there is a tiny part of him that hasn't forgiven me.'

"...if I do not need to look after Klee that night, then I shall come."

"HELL yeah, we all know it would've been a total flop without you!" Kaeya cheers, hugging Albedo close and squishing their cheeks together which has Albedo rolling his eyes, but he can't stop smiling either. "Hey but talking about parties, how was last night?"

"Well, I was upset about you...but Aether was incredible. Gosh, Kaeya, he looked gorgeous, when he sends or posts the photos he took then I shall definitely show you. He got along with everyone so effortlessly but even then, he made sure that I was having a good time. When I was just thinking that I wanted to leave because I couldn't handle all the people anymore, he took me outside so we could be alone together thinking I would like that better."

"Fucking hell, he's actually an angel," Kaeya says with wide eyes, awed, and Albedo nods sincerely.

"I have no doubts that he is celestial. And Kaeya, we- we danced. Slow-danced."

Kaeya's eyebrows shoot up his forehead. "You WHAT?!"

Albedo nods, so elated by the memory that he hides his face in Kaeya's shirt some more. "It might just be the best thing that's ever happened to me. I can barely even remember how it happened, he- one minute I was about to ask Aether if we could leave, the second he said he wanted to dance, and before I knew it we were in in garden and he was in my arms. I think...that was when I realised that that is where I want him to be. I might adore drawing him, he might be such a wonderful muse, but I would forego drawing him ever again just to have him close."

Kaeya smiles down at him, looking strangely proud. "Honestly, you know I've been getting nervous about whether you're seriously into him or you're just drawn in by him like with all your fascinations, but I think you just one hundred percent proved it to me. You really do like him."

Albedo frowns at Kaeya. "You didn't believe me when I said I would ask him out if I wasn't afraid?"

Kaeya shrugs. "That was just a notion. What you just said was real feelings. And I really like it when I see you feel real things."

"Why? It only serves to bring pain," Albedo mutters, clasping his own heavy-feeling chest. But Kaeya grabs his hand, squeezing it.

"But it brings colour to your life, right? Paints pretty shades over your white chalk."

That is definitely something Albedo cannot deny. Kaeya brings him an eccentric yet comfortable periwinkle blue, Zhongli brings him a strong sturdy topaz orange, Klee brings him a bright vibrant scarlet red, and Aether. Aether brings him a sweet sunlight gold that sets his heart alight, every day.

Albedo cannot believe that he spent so much of his life without any of these colours.

"I really want you to try telling him you like them, Albedo," Kaeya murmurs into his hair, and Albedo closes his eyes morosely, wishing with all his heart that he could agree. At least agree to try. But he is a coward, a coward who does not want to lose a single one of the bright colours that have come to mean so much to him.

"I think it is a given that I will tell him one day if it doesn't end up making itself known accidentally. My honesty is a curse," Albedo says quietly. "But...but not yet. I want to hold onto him for a little longer, just- a little. I'm sorry."

Kaeya sighs, but he says a soft, "Why're you apologising, you dolt? It's okay," before he hugs Albedo some more, and Albedo holds on tight.

Albedo is waiting outside fitting cubicles with Xiao. Zhongli and Xiao caught Albedo when he was leaving university that day, and Zhongli decided to immediately take the opportunity to go to the promised dress-shopping.

"You know, he's really jumping into the whole genderfluidity thing," Xiao says with a small proud smile as him and Albedo stand side to side, carrying even more dresses between them. "Well, verbally. But I think he's just been acting genderfluid all his life without knowing the term. I wasn't surprised at all when he told me he related with it."

"He's always been the type of person to do what he wants to regarding himself. What you just said reminds me of when he revealed in an interview that his favourite science was geology and the science world tried to 'roast' him," Albedo says amusedly. "And he was upset that the world didn't view geology the way he did. So he took a break from the limelight for a little while, then came back with a beautifully-filmed TV show all about the beauty of geology, the intricacies of rocks and jewels and the earth alike. It was very highly-renowned, even won awards."

Xiao's eyebrows raise. "Damn."

"Did you watch that show, Albedo?" Zhongli's happy voice comes from inside a stall, and Albedo nods.

"Of course. It was a cinematic masterpiece and very enlightening. I could not stop drawing rocks for weeks."

Zhongli's booming laughter fills the entirety of the small store, making some people look their way, and Xiao snorts behind a closed fist too. Albedo doesn't know why they're laughing but it's a nice moment all the same.

As per Zhongli's request, Albedo has been tasked with taking photos of Zhongli in each new dress he wears. It's quite a difficult job, actually, since Albedo keeps getting far too awed every single time. Zhongli is not only an inexplicably handsome man but he has such a regal immortal air about him, and these beautiful designs are giving it all the justice. The first dress Zhongli had worn, a delightful pink number, had Albedo's jaw dropping while Xiao let out a low whistle.

"Hot. Not your colour, though," Xiao had called out while Albedo's fingers were desperately trying not to inch towards his satchel that held his sketchbook. Zhongli nodded, very businesslike, before disappearing back into the stall.

Albedo sends Kaeya one of the photos, as a bit of an extra apology for everything that has happened. Only for his phone to buzz a million times with Kaeya using every single letter and emoji on the phone keyboard to channel what seems like a heart attack.

- WOSOOAJHSJHFJWJDISJCJEHJC FUCK WHERE IN THE LIVING BAJESUS R U???????

I can't recall the name, but one of the dress shops on the high street? Tiny, but very fancy. -

Kaeya doesn't reply after that which leaves Albedo confused.

On another note, Xiao seems like he's in a good mood today. It's a nice sight seeing him casually lean back against the wall behind them, expression slightly gentle and sleeves rolled up as he looks at something on his phone most of the time, one earphone in. Albedo is also quite fascinated by his right arm, covered in a tattoo sleeve like Albedo's own are. The colour is a sleek viridian, similar to Xiao's hair highlights.

Xiao sees him staring, and raises an eyebrow. "What. You judging?"

Albedo shakes his head. "Why would I? I have many of my own."

Xiao's eyes widen, before he seems to realise something. "Oh yeah, you're an artist so that kinda makes sense...but damn, seriously? But you're always wearing tons of clothing."

Albedo nods, smiling a little sadly. "Yes. I always wanted tattoos so I got them, but I have been advised by many that it is not a good idea to have them on show in my line of work. So until now, I have been keeping them hidden."

"That sucks," Xiao frowns. "I always get so mad about that kind of thing. Got turned away from jobs a lot this past year since I got these. Like what kinda thing are you gonna deduce about me just 'cause I have fucking drawings on my skin?"

"Sadly, quite a lot. Stigmas will always be around."

"Zhongli's got tattoos and he doesn't hide them all the time," Xiao points out, but Albedo answers immediately, "He is already a renowned scientist. He does not need to prove himself. Meanwhile for me, I've decided that I shall stick with hiding them for a little longer. Then the instant I get my PhD, I shall do whatever I want."

"Oh nice, I like that. Then people will be all like 'ew that dude's got tattoos' but then someone will call you 'Dr' then they'll be shitting their pants, right?" Xiao says with a sly smile, and Albedo's ambition is a little less crude but has fundamentally the same meaning, so he smiles back.

"Indeed. Though I hope no-one ever thinks 'ew' about my tattoos."

Xiao waves a dismissive hand. "Figure of speech. Did you design them?"

"Yes."

"That's really cool."

Albedo decides he can't simmer in this curiosity anymore and he turns to face Xiao, eyes slightly narrowed in interest. "You're talkative today, Xiao."

Xiao blinks, eyes wide for a moment, before his face immediately sours which makes Albedo panic, quickly trying to backtrack. "No, I mean- it's nice! It's very nice, I am not implying anything else. I am just intrigued as to why."

"Oh," Xiao says, looking surprised. Then he rubs his arm, and Albedo feels even more fascinated seeing Xiao smile at the ground, softly. "I...found Venti's music on Spotify last night. I've been listening to it for pretty much the whole day."

"That's why you're so happy?" Albedo asks in surprise, and Xiao slowly nods, the tips of his ears a bright pink. "Goodness. That's adorable."

Xiao's whole face burns up now as he whips his head up to stare at Albedo incredulously. "How the HELL is that-"

"Xiao, darling! I think I need a bit of help with this one!" Zhongli calls out from inside the stall, sounding rather strained, and Xiao's fists clench as he looks in Zhongli's direction before sighing. Then he glares at Albedo, growling, "This isn't over," and Albedo gives him an amused wave as he leaves.

He then takes out his own phone, and clicks into Instagram.

Aether, Xiao is adorable. -

- albedo i totally give u my blessing and everything but xiao is kinda whipped for this smol hippie bard called venti

I...do not know how that is relevant, but yes, that is exactly why he is adorable. -

- ?
- OHHHHH DID U HEAR ABT THE SPOTIFY THING
- OMG RIGHT ISNT IT SO CUTE

It really is. Is there a backstory behind this? Or is it really just that Venti's music calms him down? -

- yes and no!
- abt two yrs ago xiao was in a rlly rlly bad place. ..he wasnt well and life was so shitty for him and he got too in his head and...yeah

Oh goodness. -
Is it alright for you to tell me this? -

- i think so. xiao doesnt rlly feel the need to keep this stuff secret but its not like it ever comes up

I understand. I have a similar mindset. -

- oooooh now u mention it you guys do have a few similarities
- o and  he likes u!! hehe i get happy whenever i rmbr that <3
- anyway !
- then he heard the sound of a flute. i think it was jus so pure and pretty and out of the blue that it made him feel sm better

And the flautist was Venti... -

- yeah!!
- so instead of doing anything bad xiao jus closed his eyes and listened to the flute until he fell asleep
- zhongli found him the next day
- xiaos had a rlly deep connection w ventis music ever since
- i also know he rlly Rlly wants to talk to venti but he alw freezes up and jus keeps his distance

Yes, I have noticed. It comes across quite...stalkerish? -

- LMAO TRU
- but whats funnier is venti literally Knows there's this lil edgy guy following him around sometimes

Oh yes, I saw Venti acknowledge him. With your social butterfly status, have you talked to Venti before? You could ask him about this. -

- 'social butterfly' psssshh no im Not!!!
- but ok yes ive talked to venti

If you could see me rolling my eyes right now. -

- JQHD SHUT UPPP
- okok i asked him abt xiao and he was all like 'oh yeeeeaahhh hoodie stalker boi! he's cute~'
- i was abt to tell xiao venti thinks hes cute but then i remembered that the first time venti ever winked at him xiao literally passed out
- so i thought. maybe not

He PASSED OUT? -

- YEAH JSJKDAF
- he came to after like a few minutes but it was the funniest fucking thing ever i only feel Slightly bad for laughing at him when it happened

It's alright. After the initial shock wore off, I can definitely see why it's amusing... -

- HAHA EXACTLY ALBEDOS GOT MY BACK
- whyd u think to bring up xiao tho??
- omg r you w him????

Yes. We are buying dresses for Dr Zhongli. -

- RLLY?? wtf i love zhongli sm hes gonna look so good
- but
- xiao hasnt
- said anyth weird to you right...?

What kind of weird do you mean? -

- um
- involving me?

Hm. Aether has this very disconcerting habit of bringing up something and somehow still omitting all the information of said something. Albedo is consistently left wondering and worrying when it comes to him - maybe he'll bring this up the next time him and Aether speak in person. 

I do not believe so. Actually, we managed to have a conversation that isn't about you which is surprising since you are our one constant. -
Or maybe not anymore. We are discovering things we have in common. -
Xiao is quite talkative today. -

- aaa thats nice!!!
- hehe he must be in a good mood <3
- wha wait have you guys had a lot of convos abt me then????

Oh, no. Only the one, before we even met. You know about that. -

"Excuse me, sir!"

Albedo looks up and steps to the side as a worker walks past him, and he sees the blue dress she is holding. Instantly, he is struck by something.

!!!!!!!!!! -
AETHER OH MY GOODNESS I HAVE JUST REMEMBERED -

- ,;!:$*× you SURPRISED me omg albedo what??

KAEYA! -
WE ARE OKAY NOW -
I followed your advice, I bought him roses, I went to him, we talked it out and now everything is fine! -

- AHHADA i can't remember when i told you to buy him roses??? but YAYYY!!! IM SO PROUD OF YOU MY DEAR DR ARTIST
- aw is that what u got so excited to tell me abt? you r so cute albedo i swear

But it IS very exciting. It is a new leap in our relationship. -
Can you believe he really has been thinking of me as his best friend this entire time? Incredible. -

- wowwww
- u know what i didnt even kno you guys were THAT close until last night. i knew you were friends but neither of you talk abt e/o much but now i kno ur bffs im jus like Wow. when smart sexy meets sexy smart, total power bro couple
- power BROUPLE!

Truly remarkable worldplay. And yes, people have been surprised by our closeness before. We are both not the type to talk about personal matters, so not many people know. -

That's quite a shame now that Albedo thinks about it. He should definitely show off his friendship with Kaeya a bit more if he ever gets himself into an awkward social situation where he has nothing to say. Except Albedo has quite a good thing going with Diluc (Albedo helped him with a stock crisis once that arose due to a tax error and though they don't talk or anything, Diluc does give him discounted drinks) and talking about Kaeya might ruin that.

- now i think abt it...
- i barely kno anyth abt EITHER of you!!!!

Well, I shall tell you whatever you would like to know. -

Aether seems to be typing a reply, but then Albedo hears rustling sounds and footsteps so he looks up. And promptly drops his phone.

"We ended up ripping one of the dresses," Xiao says, looking a curious mix of weary and amused. "So we just got him into this one. Good, right?"

"It's perfect," Albedo agrees in awe, straightening up. Zhongli looks composed as ever but he lowers his gaze and his ears turn red, clearly bashful at the compliment as he smoothes out the dress' skirt. "Dr Zhongli, you look...incredible."

Zhongli is wearing a beautiful maxi dress, the kind business women wear to their dinner parties that have them looking all simultaneously strong and gorgeous. It is a deep orange colour, one-shouldered and fitted as it tapers at Zhongli's waist, and the split-thigh is the cherry on top. His diamond tattoos littering his arms suit the dress delightfully, and his jade-tipped hair is free of its ponytail and flowing down his back due to Xiao's explanation of, "Yeah, his hair tie broke when we were tryna get him out of the other dress..."

"That dress was a demon," Zhongli huffs, and Xiao rolls his eyes at him. "I didn't have the arms for it."

"No, you had too much arms for it. And too much shoulders."

"The wounds you give me, Xiao. My own son, calling me fat."

"WH- HOW AM I CALLING YOU-"

All of their attention is taken when the door is suddenly thrown open with an aggressive slam against the wall, and they stare when there stands Kaeya, out of breath and panting as he holds orange tulips in the tightest clenched fist of all time.

Albedo watches in horror as Kaeya and Zhongli's gazes meet, and Kaeya's periwinkle eyes widen, sparkling with a million sun-reflecting seas.

"Kaeya?" Zhongli asks in surprise as Kaeya slowly walks over, looking as if he's seeing heaven. Albedo is still trying to get over the fact that Kaeya is here, but he's a tiny bit proud that Kaeya seems to be trying his best not to be disgusting for once by completely undressing Zhongli with his eyes.

Actually, to Albedo's utmost surprise, Kaeya looks a little...nervous.

"Y-You look really pretty," Kaeya says hoarsely as he holds out the flowers with trembling fingers like a small kid would to the boy he likes. Zhongli's eyes grow wide, but his expression softens as he takes the flowers, looking down at them with a puzzled but gentle smile. "I. I was wondering..."

Zhongli blinks at him in anticipation. "Yes?"

"D'you wanna come to a party I'm throwing this Saturday? Uh, I don't know if college parties are your scene, th-theyre a bit rowdy and nothing like those socials Albedo hates but...I'd like you to be there," Kaeya says, breathless by the time he says the last word. Zhongli's eyes widen as he stares at Kaeya for a moment, Kaeya's ears burning while the moment stretches, until Zhongli seems to catch himself and coughs behind his hand.

"A-Ah, sorry, Kaeya, I didn't mean to stare. I am just so surprised. I...don't believe I have been invited to a recreational party in a long time," Zhongli explains, sounding wistful yet extremely happy. He presses the flowers to his chest as he says a soft, "I would love to. I would just be worried that any students might find it awkward to have me there."

"I'll punch them," Kaeya says immediately, eyes narrowed, before realising what he said and he hides his face behind an embarrassed hand when Zhongli laughs. "I-I mean...I'm sure that won't be a problem! You're very well-loved, doctor."

Zhongli smiles warmly, and Kaeya looks blessed. "Thank you. But, what are you doing here, Kaeya? Did you see me through the store window?"

While Kaeya flusters about trying to find an answer to that, Xiao stares at Albedo incredulously as he points both arms at Kaeya and demands, "WHO is that?"

"My best friend..." Albedo says quietly, still awestruck by what's going on, and Xiao looks like he's going to bust a vein when he yells, "YOUR WHAT-"

"W-Would it be alright to ask you to keep it down a little?" an anxious clerk asks them, and Xiao becomes quite polite as he immediately shuts up and apologises to the clerk. He's a good kid, and Albedo knows that he himself would probably be quite distressed if he saw someone flirting with a father figure of his, so he can't blame Xiao. But he might have to intervene if Xiao acts on the murderous intent Albedo can see in the boy's eyes...

"Seeing you clad in blue yet holding orange was rather amusing. What a wonder colour theory is," Zhongli chuckles, before he takes one of the tulips and tucks it into the breast pocket of Kaeya's shirt. "It suits you!"

Kaeya barely manages to stammer out an intelligible sentence in reply, and Albedo tries so hard not to facepalm.

"If Mr Alberich, resident king of fashion, thinks I look pretty then I guess I must buy this dress," Zhongli decides. "Let me change out of this, then we can pay. Hold onto the flowers?"

Kaeya jerkily nods, reaching out to take the flowers again, and Zhongli gives him a small wave before disappearing into the stall. Albedo goes over to Kaeya fully ready to ask him what the hell that just was, until Kaeya's jaw suddenly goes slack. Albedo raises an eyebrow. "What?"

"He's naked in there," Kaeya whispers, eyes glazing over, but he yelps when Albedo smacks his head. "OW!"

Seems like Kaeya's back to normal. But that doesn't seem to be stopping Xiao, because Albedo can feel the boy's ferocious aura all the way from where he's standing.

So much for Xiao's good mood, Albedo thinks morosely. But then Kaeya sees Xiao, and a charming smile lights his face as he waves.

"Are you Xiao? Lovely to meet you, Albedo has told me wonderful things! You're also free to come to the party, of course."

Xiao blinks, and even points at himself. "Me?"

Kaeya nods, smile sweet, and Albedo feels almost proud of him when Xiao flushes a little and has to look away. Kaeya and all his charm are definitely back to normal.

Chapter Text

Albedo is just finishing up painting one of his last art commissions, having finally caught up with them, and his mind is open and serene as he thinks about Aether while listening to the very Waterparks CD that boosted his art account's popularity.

The song that's playing now is called 'Stupid For You'. Albedo thinks it is uncannily suitable because he is, in many ways, very stupid for Aether.

His phone buzzes, and Albedo sets down his brush to see an Instagram notification. He only has Instagram notifications on for one person.

(Though he also decided to finally turn on Instagram direct messages notifs on the other day...and it's not as much a hassle as he thought it would be, because you don't get them for message requests. It's actually pretty quiet because Aether is the only one he talks to on there. But since he followed that boy from England, Bennett, he received a notif that was a message from him with a picture of the 'kreideprinz is now following you' along with an eloquent 'AAAAHHHHHHHHHHH&&&&+&&×&÷&÷££=££×£@4€1¥";;#£?!??!?!?!'.)

He clicks it in haste, and sees that Aether had posted photos he took from the social they went to together last week, half of which Albedo can't even remember (which might have been the champagne's fault).

One has Albedo looking confusedly at the camera as Aether beams, angelic as always with an arm around Albedo's shoulder. Most are of Aether smiling and being beautiful, either looking so ethereal and regal among the pretty garden scenery or silly as he strikes poses in front of hedges. Him and Professor Hu Tao took one together with superhero poses except Beidou seems to be unceremoniously photobombing almost the whole picture.

But then, the last photo. It is one of just Albedo. Albedo is surprised to see it, because he actually doesn't think he...has ever seen a photo of only him? At least not one that isn't Kaeya trying to catch him looking ugly. Without parents to try and capture moments of Albedo's life, and with Albedo being fascinated in every single thing but himself, there has not been much space for it.

But here he is, looking actually quite nice in his suit and perfectly styled hair (thank the gods for Kaeya), champagne flute in hand and eyes closed as he laughs gently at something a fellow guest has said. Albedo sits there staring at the photo for a while, at the flawless lighting and position since Aether is a photo-taking fiend, and he thinks for the first time, maybe I am rather handsome.

He wonders if Aether thinks so, too.

The caption says, 'formal party date w sexy ta mr albedo + new friends!!! it was so so fun thank youuuu albedo (i kno you're seeing this!!!) for taking me, mwah <3 u looked v hot by the way i must reiterate cause like LOOK at you SIRRRR'

Albedo smiles wistfully. What he wouldn't give to go on a real date with Aether. Then a little banner appears at the top of his screen, denoting that he has received a message.

- photos!!!!!!

Albedo chuckles at the simple message.

Yes. Photos. -
Which has made me realise something a little disastrous. -

- gasp what is it!!

Professor Hu Tao and I have known each other for many years, we are technically colleagues. I am almost concerned that she did not feel suspicious about our 'marriage'. -

- oh yeah lol she totally knows we're not married

She -
Wait. Pardon? -

- hahha she came up to me while u were in the bathroom and was all like 'you and albedo are ADORABLE but after knowing that man for so long I do not think he's had eyes for anyone longer than abt two months'

I do not understand that sentence at all. -

- hehe nvm~ basically shes saying that she wouldve known if you were married before by your 'vibes'

I see...well, nevertheless, the photos are wonderful. You look beautiful in every one. -

- aw thank youuuuu <3
- did u see the comments???

I did not. I don't usually check those. Should I? -

- HAHDA idk if u should or shouldnt but its so great cause theyre mostly WTF YOU WENT ON A DATE WITH SEXY TA MR ALBEDO??????????????? or WHO TF IS THAT CUTE GUY from ppl who dont kno u

Oh... -

- i feel v v v smug rn like HELL YEAH my dr artist is definitely the sexiest and cutest

Albedo has to hide his face in his arms for a good minute. Albedo knows he isn't one to talk, but some of the things that Aether says are just so...

Aether. -

- WHAAAT IM SPITTING FACTS HERE
- btw purple or teal?

? Is there a reason? -

- trying to figure out what to wear to kaeyas party tonite!
- ooooooh albedo do u wanna be all cute and match w me <3

A lovely offer but I feel as if my wardrobe couldn't possibly hold a match for your outfits. -
Purple. -

- TEAL IT IS!!!

): -

- NOOOOOO OKOK PURPLE
- xiaos picking me up at six!! do u want him to swing by your place to get you too?

Sorry, Aether, I prefer not to have many people know where I live. And it's alright, I'll be heading off with Dr Zhongli and a few of my friends a little later than that. -

- WHAT!!!! YOU HAV FRIENDS OTHER THAN ME N KAEYA???×?÷?=*÷££#€+!!!

Haha. Hilarious. -

- HEHHE but srsly tho...i have never seen u hang out w anyone else before?? which is not a bad thing!! jus curious

I have a few friends who I don't really go out of my way to spend time with, but we get along well. -

- oh i get u i get u!! ok then!
- and aw man does this mean i wont be able to know where your apartment is for like ten yrs???

Well. -
You are special. -
So maybe just five years. -

- HAHHAHHA WOWW
- okok i shall patiently await those five yrs <3

I will see you at Kaeya's. -

- see u!!!!

Albedo smiles fondly, and sets down his phone so he can get started washing up. He has been slacking off quite a bit lately so after tonight, he really needs to double down and pull a few all-nighters to get a lot of work done. He hopes Aether and Kaeya won't mind if they don't hear from him for a little while - Kaeya is used to Albedo disappearing off the grid, and he tends to check up on him every now and then to see if he's taking care of himself anyway, and Aether will probably be too busy volunteering and being with friends to worry.

By the time he's put his easel away, he gets an enthusiastic series of knocks on his door. Albedo frowns at that, because he's not very used to hearing the sound when he's at home. Only about five people know where he lives, after all (and Kaeya has his own key ever since this one time that Albedo passed out from overworking himself and Kaeya ended up breaking right through the door out of worry a day later).

He cautiously goes to the front door and looks through the peephole. All he can see is a swathe of deep purple, but his eyes widen nonetheless, because that is definitely enough for Albedo to know who it is.

"Lisa?" Albedo asks in surprise, opening the door to the woman who beams at him, waving an elegant hand. Behind her stands Jean, arms crossed and stance strong and unyielding as ever, but she smiles at the sight of Albedo.

"Hello, my darling!" Lisa sings, walking into Albedo's apartment like it's her own while dragging Jean in with her. "My my, such a long time since I've been here!"

"Why...why are you here?" Albedo asks in amazement. "I thought we would meet outside quite a bit later than this."

Lisa and Jean share a look, before Lisa steps close and pinches the absolute life out of Albedo's cheeks.

"Kaeya has told us that you have a fair lad to woo, so we are here to help!" Lisa cheers, and Albedo flushes bright red at the words.

"W-What-"

"Don't you worry, Albedo, I have accessories and makeup by the dozen in my trusty bag," Lisa winks, patting the lilac bag at her shoulder which seriously must be something of magic because Albedo has seen her pull a whole anthology of encyplodias out of it before. At the same time. "Let's do this!"

"Sorry, Albedo. I tried to stop her but she hasn't been able to stop gushing since Kaeya told her you're interested in someone," Jean apologises as Lisa stalks off to Albedo's bedroom humming happily, but Albedo simply shakes his head. And he doesn't hate Kaeya for telling Jean and Lisa about his feelings feelings Aether since Albedo considers them people he trusts very much, but did he have to? Everyone knows how Lisa gets.

"Don't worry. It's nice to see you two nevertheless-"

"ALBEDO, HERE BOY!" Lisa whistles from his room and Albedo frowns. Far too many people are treating him like a dog lately (well, just Kaeya and Lisa but that's two too many), and he feels unimpressed when Jean hides her laugh behind her fist.

Lisa indeed does have many accessories, having spilled them all out onto Albedo's bed. Albedo stares at the make-up palettes and cosmetics and jewellery in wonder, itching to dress Klee up in a big red bow he sees that's spotted like a ladybird.

"See anything you like, handsome?" Lisa asks brightly while she spins around in Albedo's desk chair, and Albedo tries his best to carefully consider that question as he looks over the assortment. Unfortunately, he has not the slightest idea as to what would suit him, and he opens his mouth to say so - until he sees a velvet purple hair scrunchie. He reaches out for it before he can stop himself, fiddling with it in his hands.

"How about...a purple look?" Albedo asks hesitantly, and Lisa gasps before clapping her hands excitedly.

"My signature favourite! Of course, darling, come over here and I will give you the most beautiful violet eye shadow. Jean, honey, look through Albedo's wardrobes for anything purple!"

The next few hours are rather unfamiliar, with Albedo feeling unused to having makeup be put on him, other than the occasional eyeliner that he might do if he has the time or Kaeya experimenting on him. He feels quite pampered as Lisa leans close, her presence very warm as she pats powder onto Albedo's eyelids and coos about how pretty he is. “So who is this boy?” 

“Aether…” 

Lisa gasps. “No wonder, a cutie for a cutie! I think you two would be beautiful together.”

Lisa’s reaction is a nice change to the usual surprise he gets. Albedo is a nerd who doesn’t engage in more socialities than he needs to and Aether is a beauty who must be the most social being out there, so he gets why people find it strange, but Albedo wonders if…this is the kind of thing people mean when they say two people complete each other…

Gods, Albedo is getting more deluded by the second.

“Oh, and Aether is close with Diluc, no?” Lisa asks, snapping Albedo out of his embarrassing thoughts. “Did he happen to tell you if Diluc would be coming to the party?” 

“He didn’t but I doubt it. It’s Kaeya’s party after all.”

Lisa sighs loudly. “I tried to ask him about it earlier today and he got so nervous and red! I don’t know why, it was a simple question!” 

“Probably because you were leaning so close to him like that, Lisa,” Jean calls out from another room, and Lisa frowns, arguing, “Who wouldn’t want to get close to a handsome man like that? I am simply an opportunist.” 

“I think you would make anyone nervous, Lisa,” Albedo has to admit, and Lisa winks. 

“I’ll take that as a compliment.” 

Jean comes back soon, looking out of breath but dutiful with her arms full of more clothes than Albedo even knew he had.

"I wasn't sure if you might want the purplish blues too," Jean huffs and Lisa laughs, kissing Jean on the cheek when she comes over.

"Thank you, honey! I can definitely work with this," Lisa purrs, eyes glinting, and Albedo thinks not for the first time that she is far too powerful and intimidating to be a humble university librarian. He is slightly terrified for what awaits him outfit-wise.

Well, Albedo thinks wistfully as Lisa dives into the pile of clothes, if it might have Aether look at me in a new light, then I don't mind.

Nervewracking. Hassle. So very social.

That is all Albedo can think as he stands in front of Kaeya's duplex, loud music blaring from inside as students he recognises or doesn't are strewn everywhere, sipping drinks in red cups as their chatter sweeps together like an overwhelming whirlwind in Albedo's ears. Goodness, the only things grounding him right now are Jean and Lisa on his right and Dr Zhongli on his left who actually seems almost as nervous as Albedo is.

They had picked up Zhongli after they were all ready, and Dr Zhongli (who looks absolutely amazing, in a wear much more casual than usual of a simple black dress shirt rolled up to his elbows and half-tucked into white jeans and dark heeled boots, with topaz smokey eyes done that make him look more fiercely beautiful than he already always does) seemed delighted to see Lisa and Jean, shaking both their hands as the two were quite silent (yes, even Lisa), awed to be in the man's compelling presence.

Though that wore off pretty quickly when Dr Zhongli spent the whole car ride babbling on about, "I have not been to a gathering like this before, I consider myself a rather social person and people are delightful but of course this isn't quite in my demographic age-wise and I don't want to seem like I'm intruding, but I am also really quite excited and I am sure I will have lots of fun and it will be so nice to see dear Xiao have some fun too and-!"

Yet, ironically, Zhongli is silent now that they're finally at the scene in question.

"Come on, guys!" Lisa sings, laughing brightly as she pulls Jean inside with her, and Albedo and Zhongli can only watch after them. Then they look at each other before quickly looking away, Albedo rubbing the back of his neck as Zhongli crosses his arms, frowning worriedly at the sky.

"I...I am starting to think this isn't such a good idea," Zhongli murmurs and Albedo bites his lip, nodding.

"Me neither...I have always hated parties. It's too much at once, and I haven't been to one like this since I was eighteen."

"Why are you here, then?"

"For Kaeya."

Zhongli laughs lightly at that. "I guess in a way so am I. It was an intriguing notion in the first place, but Kaeya was so earnest in his asking of me to come that I...ah. We have to go in, don't we?"

Albedo nods desolately. "Yes. For Kaeya."

"Together?"

"Together."

Albedo and Zhongli move at the same time, only to crash into the doorway that can't quite fit both of them and Albedo blinks, not quite understanding what's happening for a moment. But then Zhongli's laughing, that rumbling booming laughter of his as he squeezes through then pulls Albedo in too, making Albedo stumble slightly but then - he's inside. It's still very stifling, the air is extremely hot, the lighting is so dark that it is jarring, but... "Oh. That wasn't too difficult."

Zhongli smiles warmly at him, nodding in agreement only for a stream of people to walk right through them, breaking them apart. Albedo's eyes widen in alarm when suddenly he can't see Zhongli anymore, and he's forced to step further into the apartment to make room for himself. He wrinkles his nose when he realises there isn't much space on the ground that isn't covered in things for him to step on, and he knows that he definitely will trip at some point during the night, so all he can do is try to prevent that for as long as possible.

An hour, he thinks. That's all I've promised Kaeya, and that is doable! I shall simply be a wallflower and...hold my breath for sixty minutes and I shall be fine.

He's greeted by many people as he keeps walking. Albedo smiles back at them, like usual, yet the hazy nature of the party is making it more difficult than usual to practise common courtesy. He is handed a drink by a student he recognises and he gladly sips at it, very thankful that Kaeya always makes a point to purchase the alcohols that taste good, and his small stature is useful in the way it lets him slip through the throngs of students easier. Goodness, he is really finding it hard to breathe.

Where did Jean and Lisa go? Albedo thinks almost desperately. Dr Zhongli? Kaeya? Even Xiao?

He is too caught up in his thoughts to hear the bright "ALBEDO!" that is called to him across the room, as well as to note the stray solo cup lying ahead of him. So it's really quite fascinating how Albedo does not realise he is falling, until he is caught.

"Albedo, you gotta watch out!" the familiar voice of an angel laughs at him, their arms around Albedo holding him steady before they take hold of his hands and whisk him away. Albedo can only helplessly follow, eyes wide as he stares at Aether beaming at him. His sunlight hair cascades over his shoulders with the ends touched with a charming purple, with a lilac crop top to match. Yet his eye make-up is a bright teal with golden glitter, which matches the feathered earring hanging from Aether's ear.

"I knew it," Aether tells him when they finally come to a stop, golden eyes sparkling as his arms wrap around Albedo's shoulders, pulling him close. Albedo's hands instinctively fall on Aether's midriff where the boy's skin is searingly hot, and Albedo asks hoarsely, "W-What do you know?"

"That you would try to match with me! You're wearing purple and you look dashing," Aether giggles, and Albedo can smell alcohol on his breath. It makes sense as Aether must have been at this party for a good couple of hours already. But he seems more in tact than Albedo is right now, so unused to this party atmosphere that his chest feels so tight and the only thing grounding him right now is the beautiful piece of gold in front of him.

"And you are wearing...both teal and purple?"

Aether nods, and Albedo's breath hitches when Aether knocks his forehead against Albedo's and whispers, "Because teal matches Albedo's pretty eyes."

Said eyes grow wide. Albedo stares, speechless, as his grip on Aether tightens like it's a lifeline. Aether blinks at him so sweetly as he waits in anticipation for Albedo's answer but for the first time, Albedo has no words. He has no compliments. He has no reply.

The only thing he wants to do right now is kiss Aether until they both forget about everything else.

"I was waiting for you to come," Aether mumbles, almost pouting and Albedo's heart is about to be out of a job. "So many people, but no you!"

"Sorry," Albedo says immediately, mentally kicking himself for making Aether upset. "I'll- I'll be earlier next time."

Aether smiles and Albedo is drawn to his cherry pink lips again, his own mouth going dry. "There'll be a next time? Don't you hate parties?"

"For you, I would attend any and everything," Albedo says without a beat of hesitation. Aether's eyes grow wide.

"Wowww, okay, Casanova!" Aether teases, though his cheeks flush even more than they already have from the alcohol and the heat. "...would you really?"

Albedo nods, leaning closer without realising and he feels compelled when Aether's golden eyelashes flutter when he does. "I'm a paradigm of honesty, remember?"

Aether laughs. "How could I forget, nerd who called me 'so very gold' before he even met me?"

Albedo winces at the memory. "That...I will admit, that was a very low point of my complimenting-Aether career."

"I thought it was sweet," Aether murmurs, smile soft. "Lumine said it was dumb but she was just jealous."

"She is very gold too. Just a different shade. But for me, your gold fills up a whole room."

"I don't understand you anymore but I like your pretty words," Aether giggles, spinning around and Albedo has no choice but to follow him. "I barely - hic - ever understand you!"

Albedo frowns, slightly hurt to hear that. "Am I usually unintelligible? You can always ask me to repeat something. I know I can get 'wordy', Klee has told me that before."

Aether smiles almost sadly before he shakes his head. "I think you're really cute when you get wordy. But you confuse me. You make me feel so much. Like happy - but also sad."

"Sad?" Albedo asks with wide eyes, voice trembling with concern. Why hasn't Aether mentioned this earlier? "W-Why?"

Aether pouts for real now, and Albedo would do anything to kiss it back into a smile. "'Cause I can't tell if you like me or not."

What? Albedo can't believe his ears. How did Aether get to that conclusion from all the things Albedo has done since they've known each other?

"I like you so much, Aether," Albedo insists, stepping closer. "More than you can even imagine, please trust me."

Aether looks disbelieving. "Really? Well, even if you do...it's not the way I want you to like me. I think."

Albedo also wishes he could like Aether in a different way, but he doesn't think that's what Aether is talking about. "What do you mean? Is it that, would you like to be closer? Like...best friends?"

Suddenly they're not moving anymore because Aether has planted his feet firmly into the ground as he stares at Albedo like he just ate a kitten. "You're joking, right?"

"I would love to be best friends with you, but I don't think it's a very good idea. As you have seen, I'm not very good at keeping the one I already have, and if you talk to Kaeya then he would most probably advise you against it. But if you like we can try it out, though I am not quite sure what 'trying it out' would entail but I'm sure we could-"

"Albedo, you idiot, shut up," Aether whines, shaking Albedo by the shoulders and Albedo immediately closes his mouth, feeling very off balance as the dim lights swirl back and forth in his vision. But luckily Aether stops soon, huffing as he cups Albedo's cheeks and squishes them. "Gods, you are so fucking lucky that you're cute, d'you know that?"

Albedo knows that's a compliment but Aether's biting tone makes Albedo feel like he has done something wrong.

"Apparently. Kaeya has told me that many times," Albedo replies, eyebrows furrowed, and Aether sighs. Then he just shakes his head and grabs Albedo again, pulling him close.

"Just dance with me, you big nerd."

"You sure like to dance," Albedo says fondly, endeared as he lets Aether keep dragging him across the living room (which Albedo already knows he's going to be helping Kaeya clean up). But he doesn't get to keep him for too long because soon someone is calling Aether's name and Aether turns around, smile bright as he bounds over to say hello.

Albedo doesn't mind. He didn't have any expectations that he would spend even two minutes with Aether tonight, anyway.

He keeps weaving through the masses, distantly wondering where he put his drink. But he stops with a start when he sees a familiar viridian sitting at the steps leading towards Kaeya's patio, head in his hands and empty cups at his feet. Albedo instantly feels worried.

"Xiao?" he calls out, walking on over and that makes Xiao raise his head to show his remarkably red face, full of humiliation and misery. Now Albedo is very concerned. "What happened?"

"He went up to Venti," Kaeya says, appearing out of the patio as he spins around Xiao to get back into the house and hands Albedo another drink. Albedo accepts it gratefully, happy to see Kaeya, but then he is hit by the words.

"Really? Xiao, that is gre-"

"I didn't even fucking talk to him. I just stood behind him," Xiao says forlornly, hands dragging through his hair, and Albedo looks at Kaeya for an explanation. Curiously, Kaeya looks like he's trying very hard not to laugh, his eyes filled with mirth.

"I pointed Venti out for him, and accompanied him over. But then...then...he realised something," is all Kaeya can manage to say before he has to cover his mouth to stifle a snort, and Xiao cries, "WHY DOES HE LOOK SHORT IF HE'S NOT?!"

"Pardon?" Albedo asks confusedly, and Kaeya wheezes in a rush of breath, "Venti's taller than him."

Albedo...does not understand the problem here. But Kaeya is now doubled over cackling as Xiao growls at him to shut up, so Albedo just about manages to piece two and two together. It does make a bit of sense that Xiao would have issues with his height, what with his strong personality and the fact that he's even shorter than Albedo is.

"He always looks so tiny," Xiao says, still very much in existential disbelief, and Kaeya snarks, "Because the only time you're ever looking at him is from a damn mile away, kid."

Xiao just groans and looks at Albedo in pure pain. "Can you tell this peacock fucker to shut the hell up?!"

"I'm afraid I've been trying to for six years," Albedo says morosely, taking a seat next to Xiao as Kaeya sticks a tongue out at him. "Is...is it really so big of a deal that Venti is taller than you?"

"I've had dreams about resting my chin on his head...and him going on his tiptoes to kiss me..." Xiao mumbles, muffled and pitiful, and Albedo's eyes grow wide as Kaeya howls in laughter unashamedly now.

"Oh," Albedo says intelligently, as he is not quite sure what to say. Xiao sniffs and looks up at him.

"You get it, right?"

"Not really. But I sympathise," Albedo assures, though Xiao furrows his eyebrows before saying, "But peacock dude told Aether not to wear heels tonight 'cause he's taller than you in them and you've got height issues."

Albedo is completely speechless for a moment. Slowly he turns his head to face Kaeya whose eyes are wide, hand over his mouth, before he hisses at Xiao, "Snitch."

"Fuckin' dare to date my dad 'n I'll be even worse," Xiao hisses back, and the two of them glare at each other for a good minute before Albedo finally regains his voice and asks Kaeya, "Can we return to the fact that you told Aether what?"

"I didn't tell him to straight up not wear heels, I was just joking about how short you are and then Aether came to his own conclusion that you might be insecure about it. I didn't correct him 'cause it was super funny watching him panic," Kaeya explains, smirking, and Albedo genuinely thinks Kaeya is a devil's advocate in disguise.

And when Albedo thinks back, he does recall Aether's aureate eyes being a little lower than usual...

Albedo really doesn't have any problem with being on the shorter side. In fact he embraces it, as it allows him to walk by unnoticed for the most part, he can slip through small spaces easier, and he never hits his head on anything. Kaeya is the only person who has ever made fun of him for it but honestly, Kaeya can be so slyly infuriating that he can make you feel like you have an issue with anything. But, Albedo actually quite likes that Aether is a bit taller than him, especially in his heels. It makes him feel quite warm and safe when they hug, and he thinks it very fitting to have to look up at Aether what with the boy being so ethereal and all - and perhaps this is a bit of a strange time for Albedo to realise that his type might be taller people.

"So you don't want to try talking to Venti again?" Albedo gently urges but Xiao just sighs, looking at the ground.

"What's the point. He probably already thinks I'm creepy anyway."

"Babe, you know if you tell him you're a firefighter then he'll literally be putty in your hands, right?" Kaeya says and Xiao snaps his head up to yell at him again before the words sink in. He blinks, eyes widening.

"...really?"

"Absolutely. Who doesn't thirst over firefighters?"

"I don't," Albedo says, and Kaeya snorts, "Yeah 'cause you're motorbike-sexual."

Albedo wrinkles his nose. "That is...a disturbing notion. They are just my favourite thing to draw."

"I hear lies, chihuahua. Aether keeps telling me about how you practically drool over his motorbike every time you see it. If I didn't know any better, I'd say he's jealous~" Kaeya sings, and Xiao clarifies, "Oh he's totally jealous. Asked me shit like 'what does a motorbike have that I don't?'"

"Wha- why would Aether be jealous of something inanimate?" Albedo splutters, and Kaeya and Xiao sharing an amused look is not an answer.

While Albedo is still trying to wrap his head around the last few minutes of conversation, a familiar relieved voice calls out, "Xiao, there you are! Ah, Albedo too - and Kaeya!"

Kaeya immediately straightens up when Zhongli goes over to them, the latter smiling and looking refined as ever even if his hair is a bit messier. Xiao gives him a nod, and Albedo is about to say hello until Kaeya says a slightly strained, "Y-You came."

"Yes, of course! And I've been looking for you, I wished to greet the host," Zhongli tells him, pleased at the sight of Kaeya. "I was worried at first but everyone is very welcoming, and I recognise quite a few students. I even participated in a drinking game! I believe it was called...beer ping pong? Or, no, I don't think it was both words from ping pong...beer ping?"

Xiao has his head in his hands again, ears bright red from embarrassment, and Zhongli's sweet yet misunderstanding enthusiasm seems to make Kaeya lose all his nerves as he laughs, "You're adorable, do you know that, doctor?"

Zhongli blinks, flushing a little. "Is- is that so?"

"Mhm. Come on, let me get you a drink," Kaeya grins as he takes Zhongli's hand, and the first time Albedo has ever seen Zhongli stumble is now when he follows Kaeya out onto the patio, eyes wide and slightly helpless.

"Oh my gods. I have spent two years deluding myself that there was nothing between them and I was so wrong," Albedo thinks out loud, completely miserable. Zhongli and Kaeya are going to end up dating one day and Albedo will be the third wheel to end all third wheels. This is what happens when worlds collide. What next, Keqing the art gallery director travels here from England and hits it off with Professor Hu Tao?

"I think Zhongli really does like him, though," Xiao mumbles from where his head is still hidden in his arms. "I saw him looking all pensive and sad the other day as he stared into space and I was like 'what's up'. He just sighed and went 'I think I am yearning for someone for the first time in a very long while.' I was all 'is it weird tulip dude' and he just sighed again. But like. Dreamily."

"I do not say this word lightly but...gross."

Xiao snorts. "That's my word. Am I influencing you?"

"Maybe."

But Albedo silently realises that when he thinks about it, he would not trust anyone else to date either of them.

"Xiao, would you like to dance?" Albedo says suddenly when the silence stretches on for too long, and Xiao stares at him like he's mad.

"No?"

"Oh." Albedo has no answer to that. Except for the fact that he doesn't really want to dance either. "Then do you want to get some drinks and...hm...trash Kaeya's room?"

"Oh, now you're talking," Xiao grins, a glint in his eyes as he gets onto his feet. Albedo chuckles because he knew Xiao would like that, the boy seems like he needs to take out a bit of rage on Kaeya's belongings. Albedo will clean up all of Xiao's damage anyway. "Come on, nerd!"

"Alright...shortie."

Xiao freezes.

In what feels like a flash, suddenly Albedo is lifted up bridal-style in Xiao's arms. Albedo blinks, so confused that he just lets Xiao carry him into Kaeya's patio but when Xiao starts getting closer to Kaeya's small garden pond, Albedo realises what is going to happen.

"Wait- hold on, Xiao, I am sorry, I did not mean it, it- it was only a rebuttal in jest to you calling me nerd, please do not throw-"

"TOO LATE, SUCKER!" Xiao yells, and Albedo has to unceremoniously hold his breath and squeeze his eyes shut when Xiao drops him. Suddenly he's being submerged in freezing cold water, surrounded by lilypads, and it is not a pleasant experience in the slightest - until Xiao, who is very tipsy and off balance, falls right in with him and clings onto Albedo for dear life.

"I DON'T KNOW HOW TO FUCKING SWIM," Xiao yells out, and Albedo has to try very hard to stop Xiao from drowning the both of them.

"Is- is that not a firefighter requirement?"

"I'M LEARNING, OKAY!"

"Well, maybe this will help," Albedo teases but he still wraps a comforting arm around Xiao's torso. The both of them are so horribly and utterly drenched that it's ridiculous and before Albedo knows it, he's laughing. Xiao looks at him in surprise because Albedo probably seems like an absolute madman laughing uncontrollably while they're stuck in this freezing pond - but Xiao ends up cracking a smile too, and he tries and fails to drown Albedo in the pool because of the shortie comment.

All in all, this party is shaping up to be quite fun.

Albedo is in Kaeya's room drying off. Him and Xiao had spent about an hour in the pond, with Albedo actually giving Xiao a tiny impromptu lesson before they just ended up splashing water at each other. Albedo felt like such a kid and he doesn't think he's ever felt like that before. Even when he was legally a child.

Then Kaeya and Lisa had come over because of the commotion and howled in laughter at the sight of them only for Xiao and Albedo to look each other, nod, before they grabbed one of each of their legs and pulled them in too. It was very satisfying.

"I still smell like pondweed! Zhongli's never gonna wanna kiss me now!" Kaeya whines as he comes out of his shower towelling his hair, and Albedo rolls his eyes at him. "Hm? Where did little Xiao go?"

"He finished changing and said he was going to find Ae-"

"FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT!" chanting sounds from downstairs, interrupting Albedo who blinks in alarm. Kaeya groans and throws his towel at Albedo before making to leave.

"Have to go and stop whatever that is. Don't catch a cold, chihuahua!"

Albedo nods as Kaeya leaves. He shucks his wet shirt and goes over to Kaeya's wardrobe to find some comfy clothes. Amusingly he finds one of his own sweaters that he must've left here before, so he tugs that on as well as some trousers.

There's suddenly a loud collective 'OHHHHH' from downstairs, and Albedo really is wondering what's going on. But he also feels a little tired now, and thinks he might just climb into Kaeya's bed and rest. He goes to do just that, but then he hears frantic footsteps up the stairs and his eyes widen when the door slams open to show that Kaeya has returned, out of breath and stressed.

"Kae-"

"Aether wants you!" Kaeya yells, and Albedo's jaw drops before he tries to ask why but Kaeya is already grabbing his arm and pulling him out of the room and down the stairs. All Albedo can do is try not to trip after him.

"What the FUCK were you thinking?!" he hears a familiar voice yell, as the first thing Albedo sees is a loud crowd gathered around Xiao pinning some guy to the wall by their throat, teeth bared, while Zhongli seems to be trying to get the crowd to disperse. But Kaeya keeps dragging him past them until they're outside, and then Albedo's chest goes so tight when he sees a gold entity of teal and purple sitting on the sidewalk.

Aether is practically curled up into a ball, shivering with his head tucked against his knees, and Albedo wants to know what made him that way. He wants to know so he can eliminate it from this world.

"What happened," Albedo asks Kaeya quietly, voice quivering. Kaeya shakes his head.

"I don't even know yet. But Aether asked for you so go to him, alright? I gotta go make sure Xiao doesn't end up killing that dude..."

Albedo slowly nods before Kaeya leaves him to go back into his duplex. Albedo breathes out shakily, mouth feeling dry no matter how many times he swallows, before he clenches his fists and pulls off the sweater he's wearing.

"Aether, here," Albedo says gently as he takes a seat next to the boy, offering the sweater. Aether stills, before he looks up, and Albedo's heart breaks into the smallest of fragments when he sees tears in those beautiful golden eyes. Even more gather when Aether sees him.

"Al- Albedo! You're okay!" Aether wails, arms reaching out and Albedo shushes him while he pulls Aether into a warm embrace, stroking his hair as he murmurs a gentle, "Why wouldn't I be okay?"

Aether sniffles into his shoulder, hands warm against Albedo's bare skin - but then Aether pauses and pulls away a little. "You- you're not wearing a shirt?"

"I don't get cold. But you look freezing, Aether," Albedo says softly, and he shakes his head when the boy tries to disagree. "Please put this on."

Aether looks too weary to argue, so he just nods and Albedo helps him put the sweater on. Luckily Aether looks warmer now, and he leans into Albedo's side once he's done. Albedo rests his head against Aether's and they sit there silently for a small moment, looking at the stars with arms entwined.

Albedo wonders what happened. He has many theories. Maybe it was courting taken too far,  because Albedo is reminded of the fact that Aether is so beautiful and delightful that he probably gets hit on left and right. Or maybe it was simply a drunken mistake, punches thrown or misunderstandings stirred due to the fatale that is alcohol. Albedo does not know, but Aether doesn't have to tell him if he doesn't want to. Albedo will simply be there for him.

But soon, Aether speaks up. "They said bad things about you."

Albedo's eyes grow wide. It takes him a bizarrely long time to register that sentence, because suddenly this involves him? "P-Pardon?"

"I didn't like it," Aether mumbles, hiding his face in his knees. "They were being gross as shit. I'm used to people being gross about me and that would've been easier to take, but, not you. This 'sexy TA Mr Albedo' stuff is fun but not if they're gonna objectify you!"

...oh.

"Are you telling me you fought for my honour?" Albedo asks in quiet surprise, eyes wide, and Aether laughs at that.

"Don't act like I'm someone super righteous, I just wanted to be a decent human being!"

"Still. You getting into a fight for me, that sounds very romantic," Albedo says, and he's joking but he feels his heart beating faster with every passing second. Aether blinks at him in shock for a moment but then he's laughing again, loud and bright. This is a much nicer sight than the way Aether was crying before. "Thank you, Aether. This...surprises me a lot, actually. I did not think people thought of me that way but, I'll be careful."

It really is rather surprising. It is an uncomfortable feeling, knowing that even his very own students might think strange things about him when Albedo has been nothing but nice to them, simply happy to teach them. His stomach starts to swirl a little and he ducks his head, hiding his face in Aether's shoulder.

"Albedo?"

"Sorry, I...ah. I just don't know what to think. I have never experienced something like this..."

"Really? No cat-calling or anything?" Aether asks as he cards a comforting hand through Albedo's hair, and Albedo shakes his head. "That's good."

"I did not spend much time outside before I came to Mondstadt for university, and then I was always pouring myself into my studies. I did have my face complimented before but it was usually by people older than me, in a more doting way. Kaeya must have been the first person to say it otherwise...but not in a bad way. It's one of the reasons that even knowing that my students call me 'sexy TA' behind my back is quite strange to me."

"Oh...do you hate it when I do it too? I can stop!" Aether insists worriedly and Albedo feels touched by his concern.

"No, I don't, since you are a friend. And I don't hate it in general, sometimes I even feel flattered, but...it's very new. I've not put much thought into it but with what just happened, now it feels like there might be deeper levels to it than I thought. I don't wish to be objectified..."

"Yeah, of course. If anyone tries something, I'll protect you! Dr Zhongli's taught me self-defence," Aether says proudly, and Albedo smiles. Trust Aether to lift his mood in an instant.

"I'll be grateful for that."

"You know...you really are super cute," Aether murmurs, shy, and Albedo almost chokes on air from how out of the blue that was. "I-I know you probably don't ever think about your looks, and I know you probably put a lot of things ahead of it, like your work and your art and everything and that's super cool! But I think your face is super nice and I don't really think that in any way other than 'Wow! Albedo is so cute!' and like the weirdest way is that sometimes it makes me wanna pinch your cheeks or maybe just- wait, wait, I'm getting way off track, uh...I just, don't want you to think that your looks are a bad thing, after what happened tonight."

Albedo raises his head to stare in silent surprise at Aether for a moment, as the latter's blush darkens by the second. Then, before Albedo can even stop himself, he's laughing. It's the second time this night that he has to cover his mouth with his free hand to stifle uncontrollable snickers, and Aether stares at him incredulously. "Wha- I was being serious, why are you laughing?!"

"N-No, I apologise. I was simply thinking that you might be the sweetest thing I have ever encountered. I'm about to get a cavity."

"Cheesy!" Aether complains, and Albedo laughs some more. He squeezes Aether's hand, too.

"You're correct, I do not really think about my looks. But I am happy if you like my face. It is a great compliment coming from someone as beautiful as you, and your words definitely make me feel better about everything," Albedo says softly. There will always be bad people out there but Albedo wishes to focus only on the good ones because they make everything worth it. If Aether, a good one, likes the way Albedo looks then he will take that to heart. "I also...thought that I, maybe, looked a little handsome in that last picture you posted of me today..."

"Awww, look at you getting all shy," Aether coos, making Albedo flush red as he hides his face some more. "Hell yeah, you were handsome as hell. But you know what was so attractive about you that night? You didn't talk much but I was watching you when you did, and I love how earnest you are when you talk about your work. And you have something so gentle, honest, and polite about you when you're talking to anyone. You're wild, Albedo! The perfect gentleman!"

"W-Wild, you say?" Albedo asks shakily, trying to cover up how Aether's words fluster him so. Aether has complimented him so much in the space of the last few minutes and Albedo does not know how to handle it, let alone the thought of Aether finding his nature attractive. This boy will be the death of him...

Luckily, he's distracted by amusement when Aether even nods wildly in reply, and Albedo is struck by something. "That reminds me, was the fight 'wild'? Are you hurt anywhere?"

"Nope! The other guy didn't get any hits in," Aether grins, flexing his arms, and Albedo chuckles, "My knight in shining armour really is so capable."

"Hell yeah he is!"

"Why did you want me to come, Aether?"

"Oh, um, no reason? I just wanted to make sure you were okay, just in case. I also wanted to say sorry 'cause...I said some pretty weird things to you earlier, didn't I?"

It takes a second for Albedo to remember what Aether is talking about, but then it comes back. Aether must have sobered up since then. "Ah...that's alright. It's my fault if I haven't yet shown you how much I like you. I apologise if I've made you feel otherwise."

"No, no! I'm just...too sensitive. Way too sensitive. I'm sorry," Aether's words trail off into a whisper, his voice hoarse, and before Albedo can reply, Aether suddenly leans in to wrap his arms around Albedo. Albedo indulges him with another embrace (even if he sincerely feels like dying every time Aether touches his bare skin but this is not about him) and holds Aether close. "...Albedo?"

"Yes."

"You smell like pondweed. So did Xiao. And Kaeya a little bit. Is this a new trend?"

Albedo smiles, shaking his head. "I will tell you the story later."

Aether nods, burrowing into Albedo. "Okay. But, you'll probably have to tell me tomorrow 'cause I-I don't think I wanna be here anymore..."

"Oh? Me neither," Albedo says, quite thankful to hear that because though he doesn't want to stay here, he definitely wants to stay with Aether. "How about...I drive you home? I will make you some warm tea, and Zhongli can go back with Xiao whenever those two wish to go home. I will go tell Kaeya that we're leaving."

Aether pulls back, eyes sparkling at Albedo. "Is that okay?"

"Of course. Please wait here-"

Albedo freezes when Aether leans close and kisses his cheek, his sunlight hair tickling Albedo's neck. Warmth as well as something a lot more destructive blooms through Albedo's veins and he turns his head to stare at Aether, but the boy is only looking at him with a grateful gaze, smile soft and aureate eyes warm. "Thank you, Albedo."

"Y-Yes..."

Albedo (reluctantly) parts with Aether to go back into Kaeya's apartment, trying so hard not to think about what just happened. Aether probably does that to everyone! Or maybe Aether just doesn't think it strange because of their fake-married status, since Aether kissed his cheek on the night of the social too...gah, Albedo doesn't know, and the alcohol in his system definitely isn't helping him think clearly.

Luckily whatever seemed to have gone on at the party has calmed down now, though Xiao seems nowhere to be found. Nonetheless, Albedo hunts for Kaeya. He does have an uncanny skill of being able to pick him out of a crowd but he can't find the guy anywhere.

He has to climb upstairs and check each room. He's about to give up and just text Kaeya instead after he checks the last place which happens to be Kaeya's en suite.

And he ends up finding Zhongli and Kaeya in there together, with Zhongli caging Kaeya against the wall and their faces way too close for comfort. Just why is Albedo's luck so bad?

"A-Ah, Albedo!" Kaeya stumbles over his words (imagine Kaeya, stumbling over his words) when he looks away from Zhongli at the interruption, with Zhongli himself looking dazed and a little confused too. Both of them seem almost...panicked? Which is strange considering Kaeya's nature and even Zhongli's, but Albedo doesn't want to think too much about it. "What's up-"

"I am leaving. I am taking Aether with me. I don't know where Xiao is but please make sure he is alright after you're...done. And I really am happy for you both, just please never make me tag along on one of your dates or I will dunk my head into a vat of oil," Albedo tells them, making both Zhongli and Kaeya stare at him with wide eyes but Albedo slams the door closed before either of them can say a word and heads right on out.

He is emotionally exhausted and scarred by the time he leaves the apartment again and sees Aether up on his feet now, stretching out. Albedo makes a beeline for him and hugs him from behind, making Aether yelp.

"WHA- oh, it's just you," Aether laughs, patting Albedo's head which Albedo buries into Aether's warm neck. Even if his best friend and his idol are going to start dating each other, even if he really is a loner like Zhongli called him that one time, at least Albedo has Aether. Wonderful, comforting, sunlight soft Aether.

Until he remembers that he is caught in a torturous unrequited love for that very same Aether, and things start to become sour again. But Aether then scratches behind his ear and it feels so nice that Albedo becomes distracted by thoughts of how perfect it would be if he was reincarnated as Aether's pet cat.

"I saw Zhongli and Kaeya kissing," Albedo complains, unable to stop himself from whining about it. Aether gasps.

"Really?!"

"Yes, really. It was the worst thing ever. I hate them."

"Albedo!" Aether laughs. "That's mean!"

"I know. I didn't mean it. I actually like both of them a lot," Albedo mumbles apologetically, making Aether giggle some more. "But I do hate them because I actually think they will be really good together but if they get together then I think I will be very lonely and I won't even be able to blame them."

"Aw. You're surprisingly more clingy than I thought you were," Aether teases, and Albedo wretchedly agrees. It stems from the fact that Albedo never really had any friends in his youth. "I don't think they'll make you feel lonely but hey, you always have me, right? I won't let you be lonely!"

Albedo nods, and pushes his face into Aether's neck more. He really wishes he could find an excuse so he can stay here forever (because even with what Aether just said, he'll still have to leave Albedo at some point) but he doesn't think even his master's degree can help him think up something like that.

"You sleepy? Tipsy? Or rather...slipsy?" Aether sings, sounding far too proud of himself for the made-up word. Albedo adores him so much. "To the Albedobile!"

"The what?"

"Albedobile? Like Albedo plus automobile...? Ah whatever, just take me to your car!"

"As you wish," Albedo says amusedly, offering Aether his hand and Aether takes it, dragging Albedo somewhere even though the guy has no clue where Albedo's car is. Albedo takes the opportunity to look at Aether's feet and notes, quite miserably, that he is indeed not wearing heels.

Fucking Kaeya.

Chapter Text

Albedo has been feeling slightly uncomfortable ever since he and Aether got into his car. And that is because Aether hasn't taken his wide golden eyes off of Albedo's bare torso since they got on the road.

Albedo has pointedly been trying to ignore it, mostly because he really doesn't want to crash his car, which leads to the both of them being completely silent until they get to Aether's dorm complex. Albedo feels at odds with what to do when he stops the car and Aether still doesn't look away.

"Aether," Albedo begins warily, only to blink when Aether jumps many centimetres from his seat due to being snapped out of his trance. "Uh...sorry, for frightening you. Are you alright?"

"Y-Yes!" Aether squeaks, firmly looking ahead now as his face flushes a deep red. Albedo smiles at the sight, quite endeared.

"I don't mind if you're interested in my tattoos. I know it must have been a shock to discover that I have so many."

"...yeah," Aether agrees, calmer now as if he seems relieved that Albedo brought it up first. His face is still extremely red, but his eyes go back to shyly raking over Albedo's arms. "They're...so cool. Wow. I can't believe I didn't know you had any!"

"Yes. I wear a lot of clothing so you won't have seen them," Albedo explains. "Most of them are things that interest me spun to be more personalised. I have a tattoo of my friend Alice's motorbike on my ankle."

"You like motorbikes way too much," Aether laughs, and he looks less shy now as he inches closer in his seat, hand almost reaching out like he wants to touch. Albedo would let him but he can't promise that he won't spontaneously combust in the process. "That's a dragon? Over your chest?

"Yes," Albedo nods, looking down fondly at the dark dragon inked across his skin. "I do adore dragons, very interesting and transcendent mythical beasts, but this one is special. He is called Durin. That foster parent of mine that I told you about created folk tales revolving around him and another dragon called Dvalin and told it to me as a bedtime story, even though I was a bit too old for that kind of thing. And they are actually quite frightening stories so I don't know if that was a good idea."

Aether smiles. "How old were you?"

"Fifteen when she started, all the way to seventeen. But, I suppose she didn't really tell them like bedtime stories - more like life lessons, stories with morals."

"Ooh, I see. She used cool dragons to make you a good person!"

"I suppose you could say that," Albedo chuckles, and he watches as Aether rests light fingers on his arm and gently traces the etchings of gold stretching over the limb. Albedo's ears turn red as he feels his hairs stand up on end, and he tries hard to maintain his composure by clenching a fist behind his back. "Wow...gold...you drew these, right? Like, designed them? They look like some of the backgrounds you put on your drawings."

"Yes."

"Gods, you're so cool. But why is this sleeve gold and your other arm's black and white?" Aether questions, pointing at said arm, and Albedo can't help but smile when he remembers the reasoning.

"I originally only wanted to get one tattoo sleeve, which is this gold one. Klee saw it one day and got upset that it was already coloured. I asked her why and she said it was because she wanted to colour it in. Therefore I immediately rushed off to make black and white designs for another sleeve. She stayed true to her word, she often earnestly colours this arm until I have to scrub my skin raw to get it off even with skin-friendly pens."

When Albedo finishes speaking, warm with nostalgia, he notices that Aether is staring at him with wide eyes and an open mouth, face even redder than before. Albedo stares back at him, unsure of how to approach such a reaction - but he blinks worriedly when Aether groans all of a sudden and sinks his head into his hands, pitifully muttering something too quiet for Albedo to hear.

"Aether, what is-"

"WHY are you so perfect, huh?! Who let you exist!" Aether whines, hands dragging through his hair. Albedo feels extremely confused.

"That...is not true- Aether, are you alright? Are you catching a cold?"

"No, I just- I-" Aether then descends into a series of unintelligible noises of frustration. Albedo can only chalk it up to the fact that Aether probably isn't completely sober. Albedo isn't judging him since neither is he, mostly due to the fact that Lisa had called out for Jean to send over drinks galore while they were in the pond.

Eventually, Aether just sighs and shakes his head. "Let's just go."

Aether suddenly looks so weary that Albedo worries that he has upset him somehow. So he gets out of the car quick enough to open the door for Aether, bowing low as he does so, and thankfully that has Aether snickering.

"Oh my, what a gentleman," Aether teases, his faux posh voice making a comeback as he flamboyantly holds out a hand and Albedo takes it, helping him out. Though Aether sways against him once he's on his feet and Albedo has to wrap an arm around him to keep him steady, and it ends up being quite a hassle to get inside like that as Aether yelps at every single stumble and makes a point of being practically dead weight.

"Carry me, mighty tattooed steed!" Aether calls once they get to the stairs, pointing an arm into the air, and Albedo gives him a dry look before dragging them into the elevator.

Finally they get to Aether's dorm room, where Aether takes a good ten minutes trying to open the door before getting surprised when he finally does so he trips inside, making Albedo's eyes grow wide as he goes down with him. But they manage to hold on until they get to Aether's bed, where they fall onto it in a mess of sighs (on Albedo's part) and giggles (on Aether's) and Albedo flops his tired face into Aether's chest.

"You are awful," Albedo complains, feeling like he's just run a marathon, but he thinks he might forgive Aether when the boy wraps his arms around Albedo's head and hugs it tight.

They stay like that for a little while, and it's lovely. Aether buries his face sweetly into Albedo's hair, and Albedo thinks that he could fall asleep here. In Aether's arms, basking in his golden warmth and starry aura.

"You are like...freshly baked bread," Albedo murmurs. "Warm...golden...soft...smell nice..."

"Wow," Aether laughs softly, sounding shy and surprised as he pats Albedo's head. "I think that's the least eloquent yet cutest compliment you've ever given me?" 

"I'll compliment you forever..."

Aether doesn't reply to that, and Albedo slowly feels himself falling into the realm of dreams. But then Aether cards a hand through his hair and asks, "Do you wanna play a game?"

Albedo opens his eyes in confused surprise at the question and looks up, almost offended that Aether decided to ruin this splendid moment to ask that. "Aether. We were having such a nice time."

Aether bursts into laughter, pinching Albedo's cheeks. "Oh come on, not a tricky game! You heard of 21 questions?"

"So that was your plan. You lured me in here to learn my secrets," Albedo says with narrowed eyes, and Aether squawks in disbelief, "Also known as getting to know you, you nerd!"

"Alright, I shall indulge in your '21 questions'...but you shall not defeat me."

"Man, so I already knew that you get weird when you drink and that you get weird when you're sleepy so why am I surprised that you're extra weird when you're both?" Aether complains and, truth be told, Albedo does feel quite out of touch with reality right now. But then Aether grins, patting Albedo's shoulders. "Be ready 'cause I got so much I wanna know! You can start, though."

It's flattering, that Aether wants to know about him. Albedo definitely wants to know about him too but he just isn't sure of what kinds of questions to ask. He furrows his eyebrows, racking his brain, and Aether chuckles, "You look like I just asked you to do the most impossible thing ever."

"Apologies, I...hm..." Then Albedo feels something silken soft tickle his hand, and he's got it. "Why do you grow out your hair?"

Aether smiles, looking his signature mix of proud and shy. "When I was younger, I was really jealous of girls because of their hair. I was like woah, their hair always looks so pretty and they can do so many things with it! But all the boys I knew kept their hair short, and my mother always sent me to get my hair cut so I just thought that was the way it was. But it turned out that Lumine actually wanted to keep her hair mostly short, so we promised we'd have each other's back and told our parents what we wanted to do with our hair together! I've had long hair since then but it's a mega hassle when I'm out moving about so I keep it in a braid most of the time, but I'm so attached to it. Heh, Lumine really gives me the strength to do anything."

"It looks like true strands of gold," Albedo says, smiling when Aether's ears turn pink and he ducks their head shyly. "I'm glad you and Lumine were able to do that."

"Y-Yeah, me too! It was also really nice to meet Zhongli 'cause he has super long hair, I love it. Xiao also had long hair when we first met. And hey, so many guys here do! Even your hair is a little long."

"My hair is nowhere near the length of yours and yet it is a consistent mess," Albedo says flatly, but Aether argues, "Don't you DARE say that, I love it! It always looks so fluffy! I always wanna cuddle your head because of it."

"You're doing that right now." 

"Exactly! Best thing ever."

"Isn't it your turn?"

"Oh, yeah! Hm..." Aether looks adorable when he's thinking, face scrunched in concentration. "How did the art thing start?"

Albedo tries to think back. "Do you mean...why I started to draw or why I started the art account?"

"Ooh...both?"

"Ah. Well, it was originally because I wanted to find a way to pick apart and learn about the structure of all the things I was interested in, in hopes it might better my understanding of it. It was also nice to detail my notes with illustrations via this. It became something that I liked doing, so I did it very often, unknowingly trying to hone my skills. Before I knew it, I was drawing simply for the sake of drawing, and it never fails to calm me down. As for the account, I started that when I was sixteen as a log of sorts just to see what might happen, really. I definitely did not foresee my drawings...'blowing up'."

"You really are popular, Dr Artist," Aether says happily, sounding so proud yet wistful, too. "Online and off..."

"Only for my work," Albedo shrugs. "Not for personality. That is your department and I find it so fascinating, how people are so taken by you. Myself included."

"You're 'taken by me'?" Aether teases even though there's a slight wobble in his voice, and Albedo nods. He will forever be on his quest to increase Aether's self-esteem.

"Incredibly so. Does that count as another question for you?"

"Wha- no!" Aether yelps, slapping Albedo's shoulder which makes him smile. "Okay, okay, I won't ask anything else. You go!"

"Where are you from originally?"

Aether shrugs. "Honestly, I don't even know. Growing up, our parents moved us about a whole lot which is probably the biggest reason why I'd say home is wherever I'm with my sister. I think my parents are English, so I guess that's what my blood is, but...I think if there was any place that could feel like home, it would be here. Mondstadt."

"Really?" Albedo asks curiously, and Aether nods.

"Yep! Lumine and I have a really good friend called Amber who lives here - she taught me how to ride a motorbike! - and I came here a lot with Xiao after I met Zhongli, whenever Xiao would come to visit him. I just get such cosy vibes from this place. Everyone is so lovely and have always welcomed me with open arms."

"I'm glad to hear that, this definitely is a lovely place. But...why did you decide to move to this university, in your second year? Where were you before?" Albedo questions, many thoughts on his mind, but Aether taps Albedo's nose to stop him.

"You're asking me too many questions~"

Oh. Right. The game. "I-I apologise-"

"Me and Xiao moved here together," Aether answers anyway, making Albedo's eyes widen in surprise. "Me and Lumine were both at the University of Liyue together for our first year. But you know we though we might be depending on each other too much, so we decided to move for second year. Mondstadt and Inazuma were top contenders since we have tons of friends in both places, but then Xiao called me and said he was going to go live with Zhongli. So my mind was made up - he's my best friend and I definitely wanted to go with him. Now Lumine's in Inazuma."

"You truly are international. You could be a habitant in China, Japan, and Germany? Incredible," Albedo says in wonder, and Aether smiles shyly.

"Learning languages is one of my favourite hobbies...and travelling is the best way to do it! Heh, it's my dream to go to almost every country ever."

Albedo does not have much of a wish to leave Mondstadt, as he has settled very comfortably here and he is alright with finding out about interesting international things from afar. Yet, sometimes he has wondered what it would be like to explore. To see otherworldly phenomenons in the very palm of his hand. Travelling (actually travelling and not just his gallery trips) seems like a complete hassle to Albedo who has only ever stayed in Germany and found the move from Dragonspine to Mondstadt alone difficult - but maybe he would do it for the right reasons. And with the right people.

"Albedo, do you wanna travel somewhere with me one day?" Aether asks him softly, snapping Albedo out of his thoughts, and Albedo stares at Aether who looks slightly bashful to ask the question but his face is bright with earnest. Albedo could never say no.

"I would love to."

Aether beams. "Hell yeah! And just know you're paying for it, rich guy!"

"I am not rich," Albedo argues hopelessly, though of course he would pay for it, and Aether scoffs.

"Come on, let's settle this - are you rich? Explain your answer!"

"You sound like an essay question."

"And I bet you like that, you nerd!"

"Ugh, alright. I...am probably rich. Although it took me very many years to start earning this much money, I am now a well-established GSI and artist therefore my commissions and paintings go for large sums of money. But I still can't spend in bulk because I use up most of this money to pay for my education and gallery trips."

"Wha- that's still so awesome, though! Hey...what's the most expensive that your art has gone for?"

Albedo laughs before he can stop himself. "Goodness, there was this one woman who was so very persistent on a painting I had made that revolved around an angel who had fallen from heaven on purpose, dropping through the skies as a demon waits on earth to catch them so they could live together in peace. Her starting bid was ten million US dollars."

"Ten WHAT?!" Aether yelps, looking dizzy at even the thought of such a large number and Albedo nods in sincere empathy.

"I know. I tried to reason with her and said that the painting was definitely not worth that much and she only ended up bidding higher. In the end I gave in at the ten million, and I have most of it frozen somewhere for the future."

"Wha- Albedo, are you an idiot?! Why'd you turn down money?" Aether scolds him, looking confused and even a little angry, and Albedo sighs.

"You must know I was only eighteen at the time, I had never sold my work for anywhere near that price. I did not have much pride for my work yet."

"Well, I hope you do now because it's amazing. Worth hundreds of millions," Aether huffs, hugging Albedo's head again. "I'm gonna start handling your finances if you ever turn down money again."

"I wouldn't mind that," Albedo chuckles because finances are always a pain. "Hold on...if you and Xiao lived in Liyue before August....did Xiao hear Venti's flute for the first time when he was in Liyue? Or was it during one of his visits to Mondstadt?"

"Nope, I'm pretty sure it was when he was in Liyue because Xiao completely freaked when he found out Venti lived here! Exactly, isn't it so weird? I've got a theory that Venti's some omnipotent god. Same with Zhongli because he mysteriously showed up in Liyue that very day even though he lived in Mondstadt by then and found Xiao on the streets - those two just seem to be everywhere. I saw Zhongli in Snezhnaya once."

"When on earth did you go to- I think you're the omnipotent one," Albedo refutes in disbelief, thinking Aether probably already has achieved his goal of visiting almost every country, and Aether giggles warmly into his ear.

They spend the next hour or so cuddled up on the bed and asking all the questions they can think of. Albedo tells Aether about how he started university classes at sixteen but couldn't go in person until he was eighteen for safety reasons, and Aether tells Albedo that him and Xiao met four years ago at a dance contest when Aether was with the live band and Xiao was a competitor (Albedo knew Xiao was a dancer, he knew it). Albedo tells him all about Dragonspine and the fierce winters, yet Aether still looks extremely eager to visit. And Aether tells him many more things about Lumine, mostly because Albedo keeps asking questions about her because he loves the way it makes Aether light up.

"And then she was like 'he said NO PICKLES-' ah- Albedo?" Aether asks confusedly when Albedo knocks his face into Aether's chest again, breaths slowing as Aether mindlessly strokes his hair. "Are you sleepy?"

"Mhm," Albedo hums, feeling like Aether would be the best, warmest place in the world to sleep on. "I didn't even get to make you...tea..."

Aether laughs softly, raising Albedo's head again by taking hold of his face in his hands and Albedo peers at him groggily, only able to see flashes of gold and pink through his hazy eyes but it's still wonderful. "That's okay, you cutie. Let's sleep now."

Albedo has just enough consciousness to roll off of Aether before the boy leaves to turn off the light. Then he's back, blazing with warmth as he lies down facing Albedo and tugs the covers over them. Albedo has his eyes closed but he can still sense Aether staring at him, golden irises burning right into him.

"What's wrong," Albedo mumbles, and Aether whispers, "Nothing." But he shuffles, and soon Albedo feels his hand enveloped in the warmth of another. Aether's fingers squeeze his, and Albedo can still feel the cool metal of the ring he gave him. Aether's still wearing it...

"You're just really cute when you're sleepy."

"You always seem to think I'm 'cute'. You even think I'm cute when I have paint on my face. What am I supposed to believe, Aether?" Albedo grumbles, and Aether giggles, face so close that Albedo can feel his warm breath.

Aether eventually grows silent, thumb brushing over Albedo's knuckles in a hypnotising sort of rhythm that has Albedo falling into slumber even faster. He's almost there when Aether asks a shaky, "A-Albedo? Are you asleep yet?"

Albedo manages to let out a hum, but it's so weak that he doesn't think Aether hears it. Instead he hears Aether take in a quivering breath, before light fingers stroke gently through Albedo's hair.

"I love spending time with you," Aether whispers, almost under his breath. "And I love talking to you, too. But it's so difficult because you make me smile so much but it's also getting hard to keep smiling, and I keep almost slipping up too, and what's gonna happen when I actually do? Nothing good, I bet. So...I can't do this anymore. And I'm gonna upset you because I keep doing that because I suck and I'm gonna hate myself. But, this hurts, and I don't want to hurt anymore."

Albedo feels a pang in his chest when Aether's done talking, sounding so small and lost. He reaches out a hand until it meets Aether's cheek and he lets his fingers brush over the soft warm skin, hearing Aether's breath hitch. "Aether, you...are so amazing...every day, I am consumed by thoughts of how incredible you are. So please. You don't need to keep smiling, you don't need to vet your true thoughts, not if it hurts. Do what you need to heal and finally see how brilliant you are."

"What...?" Aether asks, sounding confused but his voice is so choked up that he barely gets his words out. "O-Oh, ha, I think we're on different wavelengths again?"

"That's alright," Albedo assures him, because it really is alright. He'll always listen even if he doesn't understand yet since that's what he's used to. Experiments are all about not knowing an answer, and all you can do is record findings until you get a result. "I am still trying my best, to learn to understand you. Just wait. Please wait until I know everything..."

Aether doesn't say anything. Albedo almost worries that he has said something wrong, that Aether will tell him that he doesn't want to wait for Albedo to learn - or worse, that he doesn't even want Albedo to understand. But his worries are alleviated when the boy surges forward to wrap his arms tight around Albedo, burying his face into his shoulder which Albedo distantly feels getting wet. But that's okay. Aether can cry all he wants and Albedo will never mind. 

He just lets his arms lock around Aether's waist and finally falls asleep to his paramour's cinnamon vanilla scent.

Albedo wakes up with a smile on his face. He thinks he had a good dream, but he can't remember it anymore.

The first thing he realises is that he can smell Aether. Everywhere. Even though Aether himself isn't here.

The next thing he realises is how everything is so unfamiliar - the sheets, the bed, the room. His eyes widen with a start as he thinks where the hell am I?

But then he sees a picture on the wall nearest to him of Aether and Xiao, Xiao giving an apathetic peace sign to the camera as he carries a grinning Aether on his back, and Albedo melts in relief.

He's in Aether's dorm room.

The last thing he realises is there's a sticky-note on his forehead which he accidentally crumples a little when he runs a hand through his hair, so he takes it off and hastily tries to smooth it out. Then he reads it.

@ class. spare toothbrush in bathroom, its green. have a good day albedo!!

Albedo likes Aether's handwriting, it's pretty to look at even with its free quality. He tucks the note into his pocket then rolls out of bed, taking a good ten minutes trying to figure out where Aether's en suite is but he gets there.

He takes another ten minutes trying to find his sweater after he's freshened up, but it doesn't seem to be anywhere. All he can do is scour Aether's wardrobe for the only non-cropped thing he can find (which turns out to be a bright yellow jumper that says 'SUN'S OUT'...yet it's November...) and grab his phone before it's time to leave.

When he gets to his car, he opens Instagram and messages Aether 'Thank you very much for letting me sleep over last night. It was delightful'. Then finds himself staring at the screen for yet another ten minutes when he does not get a reply.

Aether has never not replied within seconds before.

Not that that means anything, Albedo tries to convince himself. He is a very busy person. It is only slightly strange because he is usually so quick without fail but it is unfair to hold him to that standard, is it not?

Ah. This is what Klee must mean about him getting wordy.

Anyway, this is good. Albedo promised himself that he would throw himself into his work after last night's party, and knowing that Aether is busy himself will make Albedo feel better about not seeing him as much. Even if his heart aches at the thought.

Time to work hard, Albedo thinks to himself, taking in a breath before he starts his car and heads on back home.

Only to see Kaeya running around like a headless chicken the instant he walks through the door.

"Kaeya," Albedo says warily when Kaeya dramatically stills at the sight of him then promptly falls back onto the sofa with a loud sigh of relief. "What happened..."

"Your blaringly bright outfit is what happened," Kaeya says, raising his head to regard Albedo's yellow jumper with a wrinkled nose. Albedo hugs it defensively.

"It's Aether's."

"Ah, that makes way more sense. Anyway, get your little butt over here, I got so worried when I saw you weren't here?"

"...really? What time did you even get here?"

"Only like one hour ago, but I practically know your schedule so I was concerned, alright?!"

"Sorry," Albedo sighs, taking a seat next to Kaeya who he lets fuss over him and wrap him up in a tight hug. "I believe my phone is dead. But, if you are here to tell me that you and Dr Zhongli are dating then-"

"If you're gonna make some snarky comment then quit it," Kaeya says bitterly, making Albedo blink in surprise. "'Cause I'm pretty sure it's the opposite."

Albedo freezes. He doesn't quite process the words, wanting to ask what Kaeya means because what could be the opposite of...oh. So Zhongli and Kaeya aren't dating? Albedo hadn't even thought of this outcome and now he doesn't know how to act.

"Pardon?"

Kaeya shrugs. "After you burst in and said all that, it was like he snapped out of it or something. Apologised then just...ran off."

Albedo frowns, growing concerned as he watches Kaeya stare down at his lap with his fists clenched. It is always strange to see a loud strong entity such as Kaeya act so quiet.

"Oh my goodness, is- was it my fault? I am so sorry, I- do you know why?"

"Hell do I know? I don't think it was you, though. He was probably just drunk and was gonna kiss me for the fun of it then ran off when he got caught."

"But- but that doesn't sound like Zhongli at all. I'll see him today, I can ask him-"

"And what, get confirmation of what I just said? Forget it," Kaeya mutters, and Albedo looks at him worriedly. He knows that Zhongli probably ran away out out fear, still unsure and scared of loving again after what happened to his wife, but Zhongli should tell Kaeya that himself. It is not an excuse for hurting Kaeya like this.

So Albedo curls his arms around Kaeya too, hugging him tight which makes Kaeya go rigid for a moment. But then the guy settles into it and practically squeezes the life out of Albedo. "Well. At least I got you. Don't need no man, am I right? Or in your case, a...what, golden entity?"

"Yes. We should throw Aether and Zhongli out the window," Albedo says sourly,  making Kaeya burst into laughter. "Venti, too. Then start an unrequited love club with Xiao but our unrequited loves are all thrown out the window so everything's fine."

"Chihuahua, are you still drunk?"

"Tired. Stayed up late with Aether..."

Kaeya pats his head lovingly. "Alright, I definitely want details on that later, but I'll make you some coffee now. Be right back!"

Albedo doesn't want Kaeya to go but he nods nonetheless, and he flops face-first onto the rest of the sofa once Kaeya gets up. Ugh...he probably shouldn't drink again for a good while.

Chapter Text

Sunday 12:30

There are beautiful flowers blooming in front of the Science department now. I heard you helped plant them. They are very nice to see. -

-

Monday 22:42

At another social. Everyone keeps asking about you which is wonderful. It is definitely making this night a lot easier to deal with. -

-

Tuesday 13:09

Klee drew you while she was at school today . She really wishes to see you again. -
Here is a picture, but I hope I can give it to you in person soon. -

-

Friday 11:21

Aether, I haven't been seeing you around campus at all lately. Are you alright? Sick, perhaps? Is there anything I can do to help? -

Friday 19:08

Kaeya says he saw you so I guess you are not unwell. That's good. -

-

Sunday 01:12

Aether -
Have I...done something? -
Please know you can tell me if I have. But you also don't need to. -
I just want you to know that I am missing you greatly. -

Albedo feels like he's going crazy. As the days pass by and November slowly slips into December, Albedo does not see Aether at all. Not even a glimpse, and none of his messages are seen let alone replied to. That is why he can't fully tell whether Aether is avoiding him or not. What if they simply haven't run into each other? What if Aether broke his phone?

There are so many different possibilities yet Albedo feels only the same crushing weight on his chest, growing heavier with each passing day.

He is glad that he has work to distract him. He completely throws himself into it and Dr Zhongli continuously comments on his fervour - at first he was impressed, but that quickly transforms into worry.

"Albedo, you seem rather overworked recently. You do not seem to be taking care of yourself," Dr Zhongli tells him in deep concern when he finds Albedo already in the lab one day staring unblinkingly at flasks, hair unbrushed and clothes crinkled. "Please remember the importance of taking breaks, yes?"

Albedo wants to listen. But his heart never takes a break from torturing him with longing, nor does his brain with all kinds of thoughts as to why Aether has just vanished from his life, and so he cannot bear to be the only one resting.

He gets confirmation for at least one thing soon enough.

"Yeah, Aether's avoiding you," Kaeya tells him sadly when he breaks into Albedo's apartment one afternoon and Albedo freezes, eyes wide as his paintbrush hovers right over his canvas. Kaeya sighs and goes over him, taking the brush out of his hands and setting it on the table. "I'm sorry, Albedo."

"W-Why?" Albedo asks, voice so hoarse that he reaches out for his water and Kaeya has to quickly swap the mug for the right one when he realises Albedo was about to drink his paint water.

"Well...I asked him about it and he actually kinda got...angry? He was all 'it's none of your business', I was like woah, easy tiger! But yeah. I couldn't really ask anything else 'cause then he left saying he needed something and I was still shocked by Aether getting angry. It was kinda scary."

Oh gods. He's angry. Aether is angry.

"What did I do?" Albedo whispers, looking down at his hands that he thinks are shaking from all his overwork, or maybe it's his eyes that are shaking. "Why do I always do things wrong?"

Kaeya frowns. "No, Albedo, you don't-"

"Kaeya, I think I'm in love with him!" Albedo cries, hands weakly clenching into his fists that he drives into his eyes, and they're definitely trembling. "I adore him more than I can even put into words a-and I didn't even need to confess to lose him!"

Kaeya pulls him into a tight embrace and hushes him, even though Albedo does not want to be hushed, he wants to climb to the very top of the mountains in Dragonspine and scream to his heart's content. But Kaeya is warm, Kaeya is friend, and slowly Albedo feels himself relaxing against him as he thinks tiredly...maybe, maybe now is a good time for a break.

"Guess we're both in the same boat now," Kaeya sighs. "Zhongli's avoiding me too. We don't even see each other that much in the first place but I tried to wave at him when I saw him at uni the other day and he turned right around, and walked into a fucking closet."

"Maybe he still is in the closet?" Albedo suggests in the more metaphorical sense, and Kaeya scoffs, "That'd really suck for me."

"I'm sorry."

"Don't be. Who said I'd be able to get someone like him anyway?" Kaeya sighs, and Albedo can't help but feel shocked. Kaeya, one of the most confident people he knows, saying something like that? Although Albedo adores Zhongli and he has a bit of insight on why he's avoiding Kaeya, he still feels a burst of anger for the man that has reduced his best friend to this level of insecurity.

"I know I seem sceptic of you and him a lot, but I think you could get anyone you want. You are amazing and you are definitely deserving of Dr Zhongli. Actually, you deserve better than a man who is avoiding you after kissing you."

"Wowww, is this really coming from Zhongli's number one fan?" Kaeya asks with wide eyes, but he squeezes Albedo gratefully. "And thank you, darling, though me and Zhongli didn't actually kiss."

"Wait, what?" Albedo says a little too loudly out of surprise, and now Kaeya seems shy.

"Yeah, ha, I think we were gonna kiss at some point but...we'd just kinda been staring into each other's eyes for like ten minutes. It was an accident that we got into that position, anyway, I was just trying to get him a new bottle of handwash then he tripped."

"Gods. You two have such a sweeter dynamic than I initially thought you did," Albedo says, slightly horrified while also feeling bad that he's been writing off these two's relationship as something superficial for so long. Kaeya shrugs, smile poignant.

"So did I. Thought I was just horny for him but - I think I mostly fell for him through listening to you talking about him so much all these years. I still remember when you guys started getting acquainted when you became his TA two years ago and you were like glowing and you got all excited to discover the more human parts of this crazy famous scientist you'd looked up to since forever and I remember thinking, wow. This dude must be so cool if he makes my best friend so happy. I think that's where it all started, which is so...dumb."

"That actually sounds incredibly sweet," Albedo disagrees, so touched that he has to clutch his chest. Why on earth is Kaeya so unexpectedly lovely and why does he keep so much of this loveliness to himself?! "Damn it, Kaeya, why didn't you tell me any of this earlier? I would have been much more willing to be a wingman."

Kaeya laughs, shaking his head before he smiles bitterly down at his hands. "Guess it doesn't matter anymore, right? Anyway. You want anything?" 

"Cake..."

"Don't worry, dear chihuahua, I came prepared enough for that. Your comfort movie's still Tangled, right?"

Albedo nods earnestly. He is so in love with the animation of that film - the lantern scene is his favourite of any scene of any movie to date - and he will forever be endeared by the way the movie portrayed how important freedom is. That to love, to be free, and to find who you are is all you really need in life. Albedo wonders if he has truly achieved any three of those things.

But then his face scrunches up as he sniffles, "Rapunzel's hair...reminds me of Aether..."

Kaeya has to hug Albedo some more as he falls apart again.

Albedo is walking almost blindly through the university that afternoon, wanting to get home as soon as possible yet he's too listless to move any faster, when he's stopped by a shout.

"HEY!"

Albedo doesn't think the call is for him, but he still instinctively turns his head to see who it is. Oh, it's Xiao, that's nice.

Wait, Xiao?

"Gods, did you not fucking hear all the times I called you?!" Xiao huffs as he finally comes to a stop in front of Albedo. But then he stares at him and blinks, eyes widening. "Woah. You look like shit."

Albedo musters a weak smile. "Thank you."

Xiao raises an eyebrow. "Zhongli's been telling me something's up with you. Wanted to see if you were alright but I've been busy, nearing the end of my training and all."

"Yes, I thought that I hadn't seen you for a while. Thank you for the sentiment, though," Albedo says, really quite touched. Xiao rubs the back of his neck almost shyly.

"It's nothing. Besides, there's another reason why I wanted to...see you. Because Aether is being an idiot, I know he is, but I don't want you to hate him for it."

Albedo is momentarily windswept by the mention of Aether's name (gods, he misses him so much), but then he registers the rest of the sentence. Yet he doesn't really process it. "Pardon?"

"That's all I can say, and it's stupid. I told him it was stupid, that he's being the biggest moron ever and he needs to see you because he's hurting himself and you," Xiao groans, hands clenching into fists. Albedo stares at him in wonder. He has no clue where this all came from, but he really is moved by how much Xiao seems to care.

Xiao opens his mouth to say some more, but then he notices the few people in the corridors whispering at them and he rolls his eyes. "Ugh. Let's go outside."

"There's a nice bench near here," Albedo offers, and Xiao nods as they leave the building and walk out towards the bench. Not even a second after they sit down does Xiao spit, "Aether has always had coping mechanisms that I just don't get. When he's angry, he'll show it immediately. But for basically any other strong emotion, he'll ignore it until it gets too much and when that happens, he just...outright avoids it until he thinks he'll be fine again. Sometimes that means he'll avoid it forever. Isn't that so dumb?"

Albedo cannot answer that, but he realises that Xiao is right. That is the exact thing Aether did when Albedo posted those sketches of him all that time ago, because it made him overly shy and nervous. If Aether is doing the same thing now, then what strong emotion is Albedo making him feel this time?

"I know Aether's done that to you before. Thank gods you did that 'accidental call' shtick."

"It really was an accident."

"Sure. Then that idiot even told you that you make him sad? What the fuck is wrong with him!"

"Aether really does tell you everything," Albedo says in awe, and Xiao groans, "That isn't the point!"

"Then what is the point, Xiao?" Albedo asks with a weak smile. Don't get him wrong, he's happy to see Xiao, but he's also very tired and all he wants to do is go home. This topic is also not really something he wants to talk about, not when he's been using work this whole time to distract himself from always thinking about Aether.

Xiao seems to pick up on Albedo's reluctance and weariness because he frowns, eyebrows furrowing as he gives Albedo an almost sad look. Then he sighs, and moves a little closer. "I'm sorry. I know you probably don't wanna hear any of this. I just wanna help."

"I know you do," Albedo says softly, smiling for real now. Xiao really is such a good person. Albedo thinks everyone should have a Xiao. "And of course I'll listen to anything you want to say. I am just a little tired is all. I want to cry but I have not cried in so long, I am not sure if I know how. I want to sleep but I am terrible at sleeping. The only thing I can do is work and I am probably destroying myself in the process but, it is the best I can do."

Xiao frowns, looking down at his feet. "That doesn't sound good."

"An astute observation," Albedo teases, and Xiao elbows him.

"Look, I don't know what you feel for Aether and I know it isn't my business, but...I don't have many friends. I'll care for the ones I do have with my life."

Albedo understands. Aether is Xiao's best friend, after all, and Xiao must feel a great sense of justice for him. It's only right for him to want to intervene in this issue, so Albedo gestures for him to continue, and Xiao perks up the tiniest bit.

"A-Ah, so...I know that he probably copes like this because of his self-esteem. He doesn't want to change things or find a solution just to make himself feel better - he doesn't think his feelings are important enough for that. Which is fucking stupid but Aether's not listening to anyone. Not me, not Lumine, not your peacock friend. You know who he'll listen to?"

"Zhongli. Everyone listens to Dr Zhongli," Albedo says mindlessly, before holding back a yelp when Xiao punches his arm.

"Gods, you're both idiotically made for each other. You. He'll listen to you. If Aether won't let you in, then you need to force your way. Got it?"

"Not really," Albedo replies, very confused. "Why would he listen to me when I am the problem? And I have been trying to get into contact with him but he does not reply to my messages. I have also not seen him at all around campus. Otherwise I would go up to him immediately."

"But you know where his dorm is, don't you?"

Albedo has no clue what Xiao is getting at for a moment. But then, it clicks.

"Xiao!" Albedo scolds, scandalised. "No. That is creepy. Imagine avoiding someone for weeks and then they turn up where you live!"

"But it's the only option you got to knock some sense into him!" Xiao insists. "Come on, I just know that when Aether actually sees you then he'll fucking...melt or something. He'll be putty in your hands."

"That sounds concerning?"

"And so is this avoiding stuff. You look terrible and I know it's 'cause you're missing him. And every day he's telling me about how he misses you too, you know?" Xiao says, going in for the kill, and it...works. For the first time in weeks, Albedo's chest feels a little lighter.

For everything that's going on, for all the measures that Aether is taking simply not to see Albedo, Aether still misses him too.

"...really?"

"Yes. So will you listen to me already?"

Albedo is ready to say yes. But then he thinks to himself that Aether is still avoiding him. And for a reason. Albedo is blunt, he likes ripping off band-aids - but not if it's a tipping point. And what if approaching Aether will be the tipping point before he loses him?

"I am scared, Xiao," Albedo murmurs quietly, looking down at his hands. "What if he is avoiding me for a legitimate reason-"

"He's not," Xiao scoffs. "I mean, he's really upset and I hate that, but I just know he'll be able to heal if he just- why are you looking at me like that?"

"Because you know the reason, don't you?" Albedo asks sadly. "Since Aether tells you everything. You know what I have done to make him upset." 

Xiao seizes up, but before he can say anything, Albedo shakes his head and says, "It's alright, I do not wish to know. It is only for Aether to say. But even if it's not a legitimate reason, I am still so scared of saying something wrong if I try to talk to him. Of stepping in with the wrong foot. I hate this, I hate having to worry about what I say because it's time-consuming and inefficient and I should have better things to do, but - being Aether's friend is a better thing."

Xiao doesn't look angry at all anymore, eyebrows furrowed with sympathy, before he sighs and pats Albedo's back. It's a surprisingly gentle gesture. "Okay, okay, I get it. I still think that Aether could literally never be mad at you or cut you off properly but - whatever. I get why you're worried."

"Thank you, Xiao."

"Wanna get lunch, then?"

Albedo blinks. He did not expect that offer. "Are- are you not here to take Dr Zhongli home?"

"Well...not really. I came here for that but apparently he's doing counselling sessions, so he told me to go back home. We've got time."

Albedo is so shocked that he can't quite speak for a moment, entirely unsure how to go forth with an answer. Xiao's eyebrow quirks at him, as does a corner of his lips in amusement. "The heck you looking so surprised for? D'you even know why I'm trying to help you and Aether get past this whole thing that's going on?"

"...because he is your best friend?"

Xiao rolls his eyes. "Sure, that's one thing. But it's also 'cause, you're good. I like you. I don't wanna end up having to choose sides if you and Aether break up or something."

Albedo is so honoured that he almost doesn't register the last part of that sentence. He finds himself laughing once Xiao turns a bright red when he finishes speaking and quickly turns away, growling at Albedo to shut up.

"Me and Aether are not even together, Xiao."

"You know what I mean, nerd, now come on! I want food."

"I'm not really a fan of eating meals outside..."

"Then I'll make you something."

Albedo happily accepts that offer, still immensely awed, and while him and Xiao head off to his car with Xiao telling him an amusing training anecdote, he thinks to himself that he really is so lucky. Even if Aether isn't here, so many other people are, and Albedo holds them all in his heart.

He is glad that Aether, wherever and however he is, has people too.

"You better tell me if you see Venti anywhere so I can jump into a bush," Xiao mutters, pulling his hood tightly over his head. Albedo chuckles, shaking his own head.

"On the contrary, I'll push you over to him instead."

"Wha- DON'T YOU FUCKING DARE!"

"It's time that you talk to him, Xiao!"

"And what, have him glare down at me and crush me under his shoe like an ant because I'll take too long just standing there like a stuttering idiot?" 

"...you're really exaggerating Venti's height in your mind, Xiao..."

Klee has been such a sweetheart recently that it hurts Albedo's soul. She clearly knows something is wrong because it's probably very obvious, but for some reason she seems nervous to ask about it, so she keeps hugging Albedo randomly or drawing and making him things. Albedo has a box almost filled to the brim with her inventions from just this week, and today he decides to sit her down after he picks her up from school and tells her, "I'm okay, Klee."

Klee frowns, looking down as she clasps her hands behind her back. "But you only look happy when you're playing with me...when we're not, you look really tired...and sad...I don't want you to be sad!"

"Do you want to know why I'm sad?" Albedo asks, holding his arms out and Klee nods earnestly as she clambers into Albedo's lap. Albedo hugs her close as he murmurs, "I haven't seen Aether for a very long time."

Klee gasps. "Fairy Prince Aether?"

Albedo nods with a chuckle. "Fairy Prince Aether. So I'm just missing him a lot. It isn't a big deal, okay?"

"Ooooh. I understand now. I miss him too, and I only saw him once," Klee says, squeezing Albedo comfortingly. "And I know Albedo loves him a lot."

"Really? Is it obvious?" Albedo asks weakly, and Klee nods.

"Yeah! Your eyes go all twinkly when you talk about him, you smile a lot! I think he makes you happy so that makes me happy."

Too many things have been making Albedo grow dangerously close to tears recently, and this is one of them. All he can do is cuddle Klee tight, squeezing his eyes shut. Gosh, he needs air.

"Thank you, Klee. Do you want to go buy some hot chocolate?"

"YES!" Klee yelps excitedly, throwing her arms into the air and Albedo chuckles as he sets her back on the ground and goes about getting their coats and his keys. Soon they're on the road, with Klee holding his hand and babbling about how she wishes the marshmallows and whipped cream on her hot chocolate could reach the ceiling. Because Albedo's a terrible influence, instead of saying that that's impossible he tells her that he'll try to experiment with making whipped cream with such a consistency so that's possible. Klee gives him a very validating round of applause.

"What about a marshmallow the size of...of...my school!" Klee asks when they enter the café and Albedo gets into the queue as he ponders, "I actually think that's already been invented, Klee."

"REALLY?! Wow, that would make one big s'more!"

Both Albedo's and Klee's mouths water at the thought, but Albedo is snapped out of the delicious thought when he hears a bizarrely familiar voice at the counter cry, "OH MAN! I FORGOT MY WALLET! Ughh, why does this always happen to me - Razor, I'm so so sorry, but do you have any money?"

"No. Sorry."

Klee suddenly gasps loudly and lets go of Albedo's hand to throw himself at a boy with familiar long spikey hair, calling a loud, "RAZOR!"

See, Albedo knew Klee had a friend called Razor.

Albedo has no choice but to follow and while Klee and Razor greet each other happily, Albedo rests a hand on the counter and tells the cashier, "Don't worry, I'll cover for their bill."

"Alright, sir. Would you like to order too?" the cashier asks with a smile, and Albedo nods. He feels Bennett staring at him the entire time and when Albedo finally turns to look at him once he's finished paying, Bennett jolts and turns bright red, stammering, "U-Uh, thank you s-so much, sir! Don't know what I would have done without you!"

Albedo raises his eyebrows. "Bennett, you don't recognise me?"

Bennett's eyes widen. "Well, yeah, you're Albedo! Of course I recognise you! Woah, its so cool that you know my name...heh, you're kinda famous around town...oh, and I remember when you made my ma some really good fertiliser 'cause she couldn't find any! That was super cool of you, thank you!"

That sounds like something Albedo would do, but it's rather shocking to hear that Bennett recognises his face as Albedo rather than Kreideprinz. But then he realises that he was quite covered up the last time they met.

He holds up a hand before he pulls his mask up over his nose and puts on some shades he luckily finds in his pocket. The instant he does that, Bennett suddenly lets out an earth-shattering gasp that has the entire café staring at them for a moment.

"KREIDEPRINZ!" Bennett yelps, trying to grab onto the counter for support as he trips in shock but he manages to miss. Luckily Razor has good reflexes and swoops in to catch him before he falls to the ground.

"Benny, careful."

"A-Ah, yeah..." Bennett says distractedly, smiling at Razor, before he goes back to staring up at Albedo in awe. "Woah...what are you doing here?"

"I think I should be asking you that question. I live here," Albedo says, and Bennett's mouth drops open as he squeaks, "I live here! Our Geography class was on a trip to England last month, that's why we were there! Oh my gods, Mr Albedo is Kreideprinz...and I'm from the SAME PLACE AS KREIDEPRINZ..."

"I grew up in Dragonspine, however," Albedo clarifies, but Bennett yelps determinedly, "That's still Germany! I'll take it! I'm such an idiot, even though your pseudonym was in German, I didn't even THINK you could be German!"

Albedo feels greatly entertained by this turn of events. He listens to Bennet's gushing as he receives his cake and Klee's hot chocolate, and Klee and Razor go off somewhere to play so somehow, Albedo and Bennett end up at a table together. Bennett is fidgeting with his drink cup, staring at the table with his face still tomato red, and so Albedo says amusedly, "You can go play with Klee and Razor, if you'd like. You don't need to stay here."

"N-No! I want to talk to you!" Bennett squeaks, voice very high so he quickly clears his throat before he says a firm, "And I'm seventeen! I don't need to play!"

"That's not true, anyone can play at any age," Albedo disagrees, and now Bennett looks shy. "Isn't Razor your age, too?"

"Yeah but Razor's special," Bennett laughs, sounding fond. "He's really cute and he does what he wants! But he can also be super serious and stuff. He's so different to everyone I've ever met but he's weirdly perfect."

"Did you two...only recently become friends?"

"Yeah! I only met him in August because that's when he joined my school - I think he was home-schooled before, or something? I don't know but...we got close really fast," Bennett says, smiling down at his drink. "And he's really cool. It's nice, 'cause, I don't have many friends..."

"Why is that? You seem very sociable," Albedo remarks. Bennett flushes red at the compliment, before he sighs.

"Well...I can be on friendly terms with people, I really do like socialising! But I'm kinda scared to have close friends because I'm so damn unlucky, and that makes people not want to be my friend too...but Razor's been sticking by my side ever since I waved at him on his first day!"

"This sounds quite similar to my situation," Albedo connects, and Bennett looks intrigued.

"What do you mean?"

"I too have a crush on someone I met in August who has been sticking to me since day one."

Bennett's mouth makes an 'o' before he furrows his eyebrows, then his eyes widen and he burns so red that he has to cover his face with his hands. "Wha- how- HUH?! How'd you know my crush was-"

Bennett looks left and right, before he hisses (still quite loudly), "How'd you know my crush was Razor?!"

"It's...a little obvious, Bennett," Albedo tries to say as kindly as he can because he can sympathise, and Bennett groans before he bangs his head against the table which makes a loud sound. That's concerning.

"Fischl said that too! Oh man...do you think Razor knows?!"

"I'm not sure. But if it helps, he seems to adore you a lot."

Bennett smiles shyly. "Heh, really? Yeah...he's so nice to me. And he doesn't make me feel bad when bad things happen. He just tries to help me, or half the time he stops bad things from happening, like when I was gonna fall earlier! He's like my good luck charm."

That's so adorable that Albedo feels himself wanting to cry yet again, but he can't. It's starting to become borderline painful that the tears never seem to want to leave his eyes.

"But let's talk about you! I wanna know about Aether and the crush and everything!" Bennett says excitedly, startling Albedo a little. "'Cause like, I know Aether 'cause he always used to kinda be around while I was growing up and he's super cool, and I was trying to kinda pretend I didn't know him when I first met you 'cause I thought you were just a foreign artist and all but now I know that you know Aether personally, that's - WOW! This is so cool, Aether is like the nicest person I've ever met and if he starts dating the best artist ever...woah. I don't think the world is gonna be able to handle that."

Albedo smiles, always endeared by how much Bennett speaks at a time. Yet, his words make Albedo's chest ache, and his voice is hoarse when he says quietly, "Aether and I aren't speaking right now."

"What?" Bennett asks in surprise, eyes wide. "Oh no, why not?!"

"I am not sure. We didn't even have a fight. I just know that he is angry and that he is hurting about something to do with me and all I want to do is help, but...he does not wish to see me. And I don't know why."

"Oh man," Bennett murmurs, sounding so sad for Albedo that it makes his chest ache even more. "I'm so sorry. That- but that really sucks of him! He needs to talk this out with you!"

"I'm not very good at talking and feelings. Maybe that's why he doesn't want to talk to me about it," Albedo says bitterly, but Bennett shakes his head.

"No way, so what if you're bad at that stuff? You can only learn by doing your best to try so Aether needs to let you try!"

Albedo is starting to feel quite validated from the things Xiao and Bennett have been telling him. He's been thinking that all that has been happening has to be his fault and his fault alone, but Xiao and Bennett don't seem to think so, and that is making all of this a little bit easier.

"I am going to find him," Albedo decides, suddenly filled with a surge of determination. "I do not know how, but I will. I'll- I'll make him listen to me telling him that I'll listen to him, then I'll listen to him."

"You're losing me but I support you!" Bennett cheers, pumping a fist into the air, and Albedo smiles as he finally digs his fork into his cake. He definitely needs the sugar boost before the day he has ahead of him of trying to find his runaway paramour.

"Thank you, Bennett. But if I do this, I think you should try to tell Razor how you feel. Or show it."

Bennett frowns, deflating in an instant. "But- but what if he doesn't like it? What if he'll hate me?! That's like...one of my worst nightmares!"

"I have only met Razor twice and I can already see that he could never hate you. Even if he doesn't understand your feelings, I think he will try to - and I think you need not to be so scared of letting people in. You are honestly very likeable, Bennett. I want you to know that."

Albedo wishes he could tell himself the same thing.

Bennett's face crumples, and Albedo feels a deja vu wave of alarm when he sees tears in Bennett's eyes. He quickly hands him tissues, and Bennett gratefully reaches out to take it; except he manages to knock over his drink in the process which spills all over the table and Albedo's cake. They both stare at it for a long moment.

"Oh dear," Albedo says eventually, only to panic when Bennett promptly bursts into full-blown tears. "N-No, it's fine, Bennett! Don't worry about it!"

"I'D BUY YOU ANOTHER ONE BUT I DON'T HAVE ANY MONEY!" Bennett wails, and Albedo reaches out to awkwardly pat his shoulder.

"It's perfectly alright, I have money. Let me buy you another drink."

They go outside to meet up with Razor and Klee again soon after, with Bennett still sniffling, and Razor takes one look at him before he asks Albedo confusedly, "Why do you keep making Benny cry?"

"I'm not quite sure either but I am very sorry," Albedo apologises, feeling quite terrible as Bennett flops onto Razor for a hug and Razor holds him close, protective and loving as ever. Then, bizarrely, Razor starts lapping at Bennett's tears, licking them away carefully. Klee giggles at the sight as Bennett yelps, trying to pull away but Razor holds onto him tight.

"R-RAZOR! WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!"

"Want to make you feel better," Razor says, and it actually works as Bennett starts laughing uncontrollably, whining about how ticklish it is. Razor finally stops to give Bennett a smile, and Bennett grins back.

They'll be fine, Albedo thinks as he waves them goodbye, and takes Klee's hand while they leave.

"Klee, wish me luck," Albedo tells the girl as they walk back home. "I am to be a man on a mission today. After I drop you off at your house, I am going to find Aether, no matter what."

"YAY!" Klee cheers, hugging Albedo's leg. "When you find him, tell him to come find me! I want to see him!"

"Of course, honey. I'm sure he wants to see you too."

With every step they take, the only thing running through Albedo's head is, I am going to find Aether. I am going to find Aether. I am going to find Aether. I am going to find him.

Albedo does not find Aether, and now he has a class to go teach.

He did try, even with the limited time he had. He messaged Aether again. He asked around for where people had last seen him. He attempted to get the boy's schedule from the coordinator but apparently that's not allowed. Yet Aether seemed to almost be one step ahead of him, always vanishing to somewhere new at every single clue Albedo would find about his location.

But Albedo won't give up. He still has tomorrow, and the day after that, and all the days until he runs out of steam. But he hopes he never runs out of steam, because being Aether's friend is worth all of this running around. He knows it is.

"This assignment is due after the holidays so take your time," Albedo tells the room as the class starts drawing to an end. "Our last classes will be next week. In case there is a chance I won't see you then, enjoy your time off and take plenty of breaks if you are planning to study."

Albedo gets many well wishes as the students start filing out, and Albedo returns each gesture. Xingqiu actually gives him something, a small notebook with a red ribbon tied around it.

"I know it's a bit early for presents but, it's one of my stories!" Xinqiu beams, looking both proud and shy as he clasps his hands behind his back. "I thought you might like it - the main character's a chemistry professor who suddenly stumbles upon the key to the universe!"

"I can definitely see where you got your inspiration from," Albedo says with a wink and Xinqiu laughs. "But goodness, thank you so much, Xingqiu. I'm very excited to read it. Did you leave spaces for me to illustrate it?"

Xingqiu's eyes widen in awe as he shakes his head, and Albedo smiles. "Next time, then. See you next week."

"See you, sir!"

Albedo feels warm but rather drained by the time all the students have left. He starts gathering his things but then sees a professor walk in with her own. She teaches Geography, if Albedo recalls correctly. He feels surprised to see her since there isn't usually a class in here after his on this particular day.

"Hello, Albedo," the professor greets him and Albedo nods back. "Can you believe what happened to Room 13? Someone started a fire in there, a loose cigarette butt! Luckily it was caught quickly but I had to move my class and this is practically the only free room. I was only just able to email my students about it."

"Oh dear. And this is quite a trek from Room 13," Albedo sympathises and the professor huffs in agreement. "Well, at the least, I hope your class goes well. Have a nice night."

"You too, Albedo."

Albedo gets the rest of his things, then starts heading for the door. He opens it and makes to step outside, only to be stopped.

By pure gold.

No words are spoken for probably far too long. But how can Albedo be blamed when he hasn't seen Aether in so long and the only thing he can do is...stare?

Everything is just how Albedo remembers it, but so much more perfect in real life than the photos Albedo has been looking at while missing Aether. Sunlight hair, weaved into a silky plait hanging to Aether's waist. Wide aureate eyes filled with stars, perfect nose smattered with light freckles, pretty lips open in surprise. Albedo feels drugged. As if now he's finally had another glimpse, he doesn't think he could bear to ever look away again.

But one thing is different. Aether isn't wearing a cropped shirt. Instead, he is wearing something that has Albedo's heart leap into his throat, hopes rocketing sky-high.

"You're wearing my sweater," Albedo says hoarsely, and Aether's eyes somehow grow even wider before he quickly looks down as if to check that he really is wearing said sweater.

"O-Oh, yeah, um - it's just really comfy! Here, let me return it- ah, shit, I'm not wearing a shirt under it...let me wash it and I'll get it back to you!" Aether babbles rapidly, and Albedo can only nod. If that means that he'll see Aether again after this then of course he'll accept.

"Albedo?" Aether says nervously after a few more minutes of staring, cheeks coloured a soft pink as he rubs the back of his neck and points weakly behind Albedo. "I...I need to get to class..."

"Oh. Yes," Albedo says, moving to the side instinctively. Aether gives him a quick awkward smile before he ducks his head and scurries past him. Albedo keeps staring after him, before he realises with a start that if he lets Aether go into this class then he'll be gone. And who's to say that Albedo will ever be able to find him again?

So he calls out, "Wait," and Aether freezes. Albedo musters up every last inch of his resolve, and it feels like he is exhaling after holding his breath for years when he finally says, "I am angry at you."

Oh. Gosh. Saying that out loud feels surprisingly...good.

Albedo watches as Aether flinches, before he slowly turns around and outright glares at Albedo. It hurts so much, but this is good, getting emotions out of Aether right now is exactly what Albedo wants. "What did you just say?"

"What you are doing is not fair to me," Albedo says, and his voice is shaking but he doesn't think he can stop now. "I am so sorry for whatever I must have done. I understand if you need time. I understand if you don't wish to see me. But the fact that you do all this without telling me a single word of explanation or closure just makes me feel horrible."

Aether doesn't look angry anymore, at least. Instead his eyes are wide again, glassy too, eyebrows furrowed and trembling lower lip caught between his teeth. Then he shakes his head, and says, "I'm- I'm sorry, Albedo, I'm so...sorry but I can't do this right now, I-"

"Weren't you the one who told me to listen when I've hurt a friend and I don't know what I've done?" Albedo asks desperately, making Aether grow silent. "That was what you said when Kaeya was upset with me. Why can I not do the same with you?"

"...that's not-"

"Please, Aether. Yell at me, throw chairs, o-or even never see me again after this but please just let me listen because there is nothing in the world that would stop me from trying my best to understand you because I've already told you there's nothing more I want than to-"

When Aether starts running back to him halfway between his shaky speech, Albedo first thinks that he is about to be body-slammed to the floor. He then thinks to himself that he wouldn't quite mind that, really, not if it might somehow start a proper conversation or give him more time with Aether - so he closes his eyes and waits for it.

But Aether does not crash into him. There is no strong force that pushes Albedo over, no punch to the gut - the only thing he feels is warm calloused hands on his face, the touch so gentle, before something even softer meets his lips.

And Albedo finally cries. 

It doesn't quite feel as good as he thought it would - his throat grows very scratchy, and it seems to be making his head pound - but he can feel an unfathomable weight lift as anything uncomfortable is mollified by the sweet touch of his golden flower's skin. Maybe waiting for the tears were worth it.

"Oh gods, please don't," Aether whispers as he pulls back too quick, too soon, and his fingers brushing away Albedo's tears just makes him cry even harder. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm so sorry, please-"

"Again," Albedo breathes, and Aether's hands still as he stares at Albedo with wide eyes. "Do it again."

Aether's eyes tear up too now as he nods quickly, and Albedo meets him halfway this time when Aether leans in to kiss him once more. Albedo reaches out shaky hands and rests them on Aether's back, not sure yet if he's allowed to do that, but then Aether kisses him harder and Albedo can't help but pull him close, fingers twisting desperately into the fabric of Aether's- well, his sweater.

They break away soon, breathing heavily, cheeks flushed as Aether knocks his forehead against Albedo's with his eyes still closed. Meanwhile Albedo stares at him, his own eyes hazy with tears and love as he wonders just how any of this is even happening. But he can't form any coherent answers to that question so he just stays there, relishing in Aether's starlit aura that he has missed so much.

"Your kisses are so cute. And terrible," is the first thing Aether tells him, even though he looks just as dazed and in love as Albedo feels. Albedo nods mindlessly.

"Yes. I haven't kissed many people. Please teach me."

"I'd love to but I've got to go to class," Aether murmurs reluctantly, and Albedo deflates when he remembers that. But he is not about to tell Aether to skip out on education.

"Please...please don't take too long."

Aether laughs tearily as he nods, wiping away some more of Albedo's tears before he kisses Albedo's nose softly, a gesture so sweet that it has Albedo wanting to break into a fresh batch of tears. He can only watch helplessly when Aether disappears soon after into the room and from his sight.

Albedo steps to the side after other students start arriving, dazed and dizzy. He slowly sinks to the floor and hugs his knees to his chest, hiding his face in his knees as he thinks...actually, he's not able to think at all. His mind is too shot, turned to jelly and aching from the tears, and every thought disintegrates into nothing in the next second. So he decides not to think.

He decides to just sit there and smile to himself, so happy that he feels like he could burst.

Chapter Text

"Albedo? Albedo!"

There are very few things that can ever wake Albedo up during the sparse moments where he actually does sleep. Very loud alarms, the smell of baking, Klee blowing something up, and...that's about it. But it seems like Aether is about to be added to the list, because all he needs to do is come so very close until Albedo can feel his warmth, that starlit aura, his cinnamon vanilla scent, and he slowly blinks his eyes open. Only to see Aether almost nose-to-nose with him.

"AH!" Aether yells in surprise, about to fall back but Albedo quickly holds out a hand to latch onto his arm just in time. Aether blinks, a little windswept, before he grins.

"Thanks. I was ready to kiss you awake," Aether laughs and Albedo turns bright red when he remembers that they do that now. They kiss. How on earth did that happen? "Did you seriously stay here the whole time? Did you seriously fall asleep?!"

"Ah...sorry. Falling asleep wasn't the plan,"

"Everyone in my class was telling me you were out here and I was like 'oh yeah he's just waiting for me!' but I didn't think you'd be out here SLEEPING!" 

"Yes, Aether, we have clarified, I am very sorry about sleeping here," Albedo says wearily, letting Aether pull him back onto his feet. He takes hold of Aether's face, mindlessly squishing it a little, and Aether giggles as he loops supporting arms around Albedo's waist and lets him do whatever he wants. "Wow...you're really here..."

"I am," Aether says, voice soft. "I've missed you a lot."

"So have I. How- how was your class?"

Aether raises an eyebrow. "Is that really what's important right now?"

"Yes. No. I am not sure," Albedo says confusedly, closing his eyes when Aether kisses his forehead. He doesn't know why Aether is suddenly giving him so much affection, but he's never going to complain. "I think...I haven't given myself a single break until now, and now that I've finally stopped working or worrying about you, I'm just...so exhausted."

"I'm sorry," Aether sighs. "We need to talk but...we can do that later if-"

"No. Not at all. We will talk now, because I'm not going to let us go one more minute without giving explanations for all of this."

Aether quickly nods, looking practically miserable. "Okay. Okay, yeah, definitely, anything you want. Then let me take you home?"

"I apologise but, I don't think I can quite stomach being on a motorbike right now..."

"Got it. But you don't look like you're in the condition to drive...and I can't drive."

This seems like quite a dilemma. Albedo thinks for a moment, brain still quite muddled from sleep, but eventually things starts clearing up and he gets an idea. He pulls away from Aether and takes his hand, telling him, "I know a place."

It's a bit of a trek to get there. Aether accuses him of taking them to some super sketchy drug den or something, and Albedo assures him, "It's just a place that my friend Sucrose and I spend time in when we want to. We spent a lot of time there when I was doing my Master's and she was in her first year, since things were getting a bit overwhelming for the both of us. It was a coincidence that we happened upon the place."

"Is it...abandoned or something?"

"Yes. It seemed as if it was some sort of basement, or maybe an old music room as there was a grand piano and a few instruments. Rather interesting that there be a music room in a Science department building."

"Hey, scientists can play music! I play-"

"-the drums, yes, I know," Albedo chuckles, leading Aether down a slightly hidden set of stairs. "And I do adore when STEM-centred people have artistic pastimes. We told Venti about it and he took the instruments but said we could do whatever we want with the room so for the past three years, Sucrose and I have been keeping it in shape. It's a shame that I haven't been going much recently."

"Woah, so it's like...your own personal hideout? That's so cool!"

Albedo nods as they approach the room, and he pushes the door open. Sucrose is there, seeming to be packing up her things but she whips her head around at the sound of the door opening and she perks up at the sight of Albedo, smiling. "Mr Albedo! Ah, and...?"

Oh, does Sucrose not know who Aether is? That must be a first. Albedo doesn't think Aether knows who Sucrose is either, but the boy paints on the most charming smile and says, "I'm Aether! You're Sucrose, right?"

Sucrose slowly nods, wide-eyed and dazzled. Albedo can relate.

"A-Ah, I was just leaving! Have a nice time with whatever you're doing!" Sucrose squeaks, and Albedo tries to tell her she does not need to be so nervous but she's already practically running out of the door in the next second. Albedo sighs as Aether looks at him quizzically.

"She is quite shy...but extremely clever. If her confidence grows, I am sure she will become a massive name in Science in the future."

"Aw, does Dr Artist already have a protégé?" Aether teases as he pulls Albedo over to the couches, and Albedo rolls his eyes.

"Sucrose is more a friend than a protégé. But she doesn't seem to think so. We've been acquainted for four years and she still puts 'Mr' in front of my name."

"You can't blame her. I get tempted sometimes with the way you talk, and when you use all that punctuation in your texts."

"I don't see the problem with that!" Albedo argues earnestly, making Aether burst into laughter. "Why do so many people tell me that's strange?"

"Just sit down, you little nerd," Aether chuckles, pulling Albedo down with him so they end up all squished together on the sofa seat. Albedo flushes a little at the close proximity, with his thigh pressed against Aether's and their sides touching. Aether looks a little red too, but he gives Albedo the sweetest smile. "So..."

"You're not good for my heart," Albedo blurts out, voice hoarse. "You avoid me for weeks and suddenly I get to be this close to you? You are killing me."

Aether giggles, though he seems shy as he looks down and fiddles with a loose thread from the wooly sweater Albedo has on. Then, he looks sad, and Albedo doesn't want that just yet.

"Before you say anything," Albedo murmurs, making Aether look back at him with gold irises glassed over. "May you kiss me again?"

Aether smile returns, which is the best thing. "You really like kissing, huh?"

"I like when you kiss me. It is an action that purely represents that you like me so how could I not love it?"

Aether makes that sob-laugh mix of his, looking so disbelievingly happy as he says, "I'll give you all the kisses you could ever want."

Albedo opens his mouth to answer, but then Aether's hand is sliding through his hair and he's gone. Aether's kisses feel like...rain. They have been soft, delicate, dripping gentle drops of warmth and love onto Albedo, but he knows they could drown him if Aether wanted to. Albedo's eyes flutter closed as Aether presses closer, almost falling into Albedo's lap and Albedo just about manages to rest shaking hands on his waist to make sure he's steady. This is the first time that he's glad that Aether isn't wearing cropped clothing because he thinks he might die if he was touching Aether's bare skin right now, but maybe it wouldn't have made much of a difference as Aether rests a hand on Albedo's chest, bringing both their attentions to Albedo's very wildly beating heart.

Albedo feels majorly embarrassed, but it's so worth it when Aether giggles quietly into the kiss and Albedo ascends thinking that he's feeling Aether's gods-sent smile against his lips right now. If his heart really does finally beat out of his chest, then at least he'll die a happy man.

Then the door opens, and Albedo sits there breathless and dazed as Aether pulls away to see what's going on. And there Sucrose is, staring at them in horror.

"I'M SO SORRY!" Sucrose screeches, so loud that Aether winces and Albedo snaps out of his dreamlike state.

"A-Ah- it's okay, Su-"

"I JUST LEFT MY BOOK! I'LL GO! I'LL NEVER COME HERE AGAIN!" Sucrose yelps as she scurries in and grabs something. Albedo's eyes widen and he holds out an arm, saying, "No, wait-" but Sucrose is already scurrying out in the next second.

"...oops?" Aether says nervously while Albedo groans, knocking his head back against the sofa.

"Gosh, she probably hates me now. I've spent so long trying to earn her trust and now I'm sure she's thinking that I've brought someone else into a place that only me and her knew about so I could-" Albedo makes a flustered gesture at Aether for lack of knowing how to finish that sentence, and Aether raises an eyebrow.

"But isn't that kind of exactly what you did?"

"I'm a terrible person," Albedo thinks out loud, staring at the ceiling in distress. But then he reiterates, "Actually no, this is your fault for being so beautiful and irresistible and avoiding me for so long because otherwise this would not have-"

"Easy, tiger," Aether hushes him with a soft laugh, pecking his lips and that immediately has Albedo melting. "Okay, okay, I'm sorry, I'll clear things up with her later. But don't worry! I'm sure she doesn't hate you."

"How would you know? I don't think anyone's ever hated you before. You are too wonderful for that," Albedo mumbles, absolutely convinced of that fact. But Aether snorts, resting a hand on Albedo's face and brushing a thumb over his cheek.

"I thought you would. I was so sure that you would hate me after everything."

Albedo shakes his head. "I have felt a lot of negative things in these last few weeks, but I don't think I could ever hate you."

"I know," Aether mutters, sounding bitter as his other hand curls into a fist on Albedo's chest. "I know that. You're always so, so good to me. But I wanted you to stop it. I thought it would be so much easier if you just...hated me."

"Why?"

Aether is silent for a moment. His fist is so clenched that his knuckles are turning white so Albedo takes hold of it, gently unravelling the fingers until he can intertwine them with his own, and he tells Aether a soft, "I'm here to listen, remember?"

Aether nods, taking in a shaky breath. Then he finally says, "I...do you know that the first time you asked to meet up, I thought you were asking me out on a date?"

Albedo's eyes grow wide. "...no. I did not know that. Goodness, did I make it seem like that?"

"I don't know? No? Or maybe a little bit but I just...I thought that was the kind of vibe that I was getting from you," Aether says, smiling embarrassedly at his lap. "That you were flirting with me a bit. And I was really flirting back. But then I actually meet you in person and find out that no, you're just a really honest guy who always speaks his mind."

It is true that Albedo hadn't been flirting with Aether one bit until around their second outside meeting - at least, not intentionally. But thinking back to their first meet-up, it makes sense. There was definitely a miscommunication going on that day.

"Was that why you were dressed up so beautifully?" Albedo asks, eyes wide. "To- to go on a date? With me?"

Aether nods shyly, hiding his face in Albedo's shoulder. "Yeah...I've fancied you from the start, Albedo. I was always planning to ask you out. But first I wanted to see if there were proper signs that you liked me back, even just a little, because rejection would've crushed me. There were so many things that would've been a sure sign with normal people but...you're not normal, are you? You've told me so many pretty things and done so many sweet things and I still couldn't tell if you were just interested by me or if you actually liked me.

"Then..." Aether laughs weakly. "I think those sketches you made would've done it. Would've made me really think 'wow, he has to have feelings for me'. But then you gave me that deconfession. I thought it was so funny at first but...recently, I haven't been able to stop thinking about it."

"Oh my gods. That stupid thing. I shouldn't have said anything," Albedo complains, and Aether smiles, giving him another kiss to placate him which has Albedo thinking that he should act whiney a lot more often from now on.

"It's okay. I know you were just trying to be careful, and it totally does make sense for you not to be in love with me by then even if we were dating, we'd only known each other a month! It was just me overthinking things. Besides, I tried to give you a ton of hints too but you never seemed to pick up on anything, which made you liking me seem even more unlikely..."

"Gods, but none of that is your fault in the slightest," Albedo groans, unable to handle hearing any more of this even though he knows listening to Aether is the only thing he should be doing right now. "I'm just so very stupid!"

Aether stares at him in surprise. "Wha- you're not stupid, Albedo, you're taking a PhD, you-"

"No, not like that, I mean - I am so utterly and completely stupid when it comes to you. Becoming friends with you is definitely the most social thing that I've thrown myself into in a long time, and falling in love is something I've never done before. If I didn't pick up any hints, that's only because I had no clue how to, and that is no excuse."

"Oh, Albedo," Aether sighs sadly, resting his forehead against Albedo's. "Don't put yourself down. None of that's your fault, and you keep saying you're not good at this social stuff but you're so nice, you know? You go out of your way to help people, you constantly say sweet things to your friends, you're a loved teacher...even if you don't get things sometimes, you make up for it immediately with how much you're willing to learn. I'm the one who was stupid and got so into my head that I ended up completely convincing myself that there was no way you could like me back. Because you're so nice, I started to think that I probably wasn't the only person you said all your pretty words too...that I probably wasn't even the only person you draw the way you draw me..."

"So you started to class me as some sort of artistic playboy?" Albedo asks in disbelief, actually quite offended and it doesn't help when Aether bursts into laughter. "What- how many times have I told you how special you are, Aether?"

"Albedo, you look at my motorcycle the same way you look at me."

"Oh my. Xiao was telling the truth. You are jealous of an inanimate object," Albedo says with wide eyes, completely astounded. Aether groans and hides his red face behind his hands.

"I'm not-!"

"Aether, I know that I am fascinated by many things and yes, you are one of them. But I've never treated anything or anyone the way I've treated you. You are my one and only when it comes to the types of feelings you evoke for me. You are my paramour."

Aether bites down on his growing smile, as if he is trying and failing to contain it. "Y-Yeah, I know that now. But I didn't before. I've never been very good at...loving myself, and all that. Compliments are easy to shrug off and ignore because my head always tells me they're never sincere, but then along comes someone like you who seems to think I'm the most fascinating thing in the world, someone who...who can't even go a sentence without complimenting me? How could I not have thought you were too good to be true, Albedo?"

"But...I am true," Albedo says pathetically, so upset that this is why Aether thought Albedo didn't like him. Because they thought that someone simply telling him the truth was too good to be true. "I have never not been true with you. With anyone. I've barely even been hiding the fact that I'm in love with you, I was planning to tell you one day just because I didn't think I would be able to hide it. And gods, Aether, even with all the things I tell you, I still adore you more than I will ever be able to put into words. I am so, so sorry that I wasn't able to convince you of that until now but I will not stop for the rest of my life."

Aether's gorgeous eyes are almost filled to the brim now. "Did you just propose to me?"

"It wouldn't be the first time," Albedo shrugs, smiling when Aether laughs tearily. Albedo's heart squeezes and he tries to reach out a hand to catch a tear that looks like it's about to fall from Aether's eye, but he's rendered frozen when Aether suddenly grabs his collar surging forward to crash their lips together. It almost hurts, but the pain sets fire to Albedo's veins, brain melting into pure mush as he distantly registers that Aether is definitely drowning him now.

Like Aether is telling him 'I don't have pretty words like you do, but at least I can kiss you until you forget your own name'. And Albedo is more than happy with that.

They stay there for who knows how long, kisses slowly melting into something softer, calmer. Albedo is dizzy, hazy, and completely out of his element, but Aether keeps him afloat by tipping up his jaw and soothing him with lithe fingers running through his hair and down his sides. Every time Albedo tries to speak because speaking is all he knows how to do, Aether hushes him and takes his breath away with another lock of their lips. Albedo ends up having a hard time remembering why he ever wanted to say something when doing so would take Aether's lips away from his.

Somewhere along the way, he starts to cry too. Silent sudden tears of joy, escaping his eyes so gently as if they're trying not to interrupt the moment. But Aether senses them, giving Albedo a chance to breathe and review the last few mind-blowing minutes as he cups Albedo's face and brushes away his tears. But even more end up coming when Aether leans in to press tender kisses under Albedo's eyes, whispering against his skin, "Why are you crying?"

"I've got close to crying about a hundred times since I've met you. Even before I met you," Albedo murmurs, closing his eyes as he melts into Aether's touch, "but today is the first time I've actually cried...in so long. I think it's a mixture of things. Exhaustion. Triumph. Disbelief. But I would like to think the biggest reason is euphoria."

"I'd like to think that too," Aether says quietly, smiling as he rests his forehead against Albedo's and closes his eyes as well. "I never ever ever wanna make you sad ever again. I've done that enough to last a lifetime!"

"No, Aether, I forgave you the instant you kissed me. Liking you while thinking you didn't like me back has been torture, and now knowing that you were going through the same thing? I am so sorry," Albedo says miserably, caressing Aether's cheek and Aether smiles softly as he turns his face into his hand.

"Stop apologising, you dummy. We're okay now!" 

"Very true. I am certain you are healing me with every kiss."

"Ooh, then I guess I gotta give you more of those, huh?" Aether teases, and Albedo nods earnestly. He would give anything to just have Aether kiss him forever, without any other worries in the world. Aether leans close like he's going to kiss him again, but then he just presses the tips of their noses together and whispers, "Albedo, I think I love you."

Albedo almost starts crying all over again. His chest suddenly feels so light, free of the heavy burden that's been growing in his heart over the last months as his eyes glass over and he can barely get out a, "R-Really?"

Aether nods, laughing hoarsely at Albedo's breathless question. "Mhm. Is that okay?"

It is more than okay. It is colossally, absolutely, extremely, definitely more than okay. Albedo would say all those words and more, but all that comes out is a shaky, "Why?"

Aether looks so sad that Albedo even has to ask that question. But Albedo needs to know, because he doesn't understand. Aether is blazing gold, and Albedo has spent all his life being the person who documents special things like him, who searches for the meaning and reasoning behind the eccentricities in life. There is nothing special or remarkable about a person whose life depends on the speciality of other things, so why does Aether love him?

He is brought out of his thoughts when Aether leans in, pressing a lingering sweet kiss to his lips. "I love how utterly honest you are. I love every word that comes out of your mouth."

Albedo blinks, flushing red, but he has no time to reply before Aether kisses his forehead. "I love how you always give your time to people who ask for it. How you treat everyone so kindly but you don't just tell them what they want to hear."

Aether kisses his cheek. "I love how you're so funny without even meaning to be half the time. You make my day all the time with the things you do."

And so Albedo is left sincerely regretting asking anything when Aether smothers him in kisses galore between whispers of love with his pretty lips pressed against so many different parts of Albedo's burning skin, "I love how you're never on time. I love how you're so considerate, always looking for answers but you'll take a step back immediately if you're thinking you're hurting someone's feelings. I love your sweet tooth. I love how whiney you get about socials. I love how passionate you are about Chemistry and all the things you're fascinated by. I love how funny and cute you get when you're tipsy or sleepy. I love how you always find some new way to tell me I'm beautiful. I love your hugs, I love the way you hold me. I love how you always hold my hand when I'm sad. I love how you think you're bad at friendship but you care so much about your friends and you'll do anything for them. I love your pretty voice. I love your pretty eyes. I love the way you look at me. I love how you look with paint on your face and clothes. I love your fluffy hair. I love your-"

"A-Aether, please stop!" Albedo begs hoarsely, seconds away from melting into a puddle or combusting into flames (both work), and it doesn't help when Aether laughs sweetly and ends up kissing him again. Again! At least Albedo can just sink into this one, letting Aether kiss away the last remnants of his grip on reality.

"You asked for it," Aether tells him which is a miserable truth. "And I wasn't even running out of things yet! I've had way too much time to think about exactly why I like you so just wait, I'm gonna email you a list because I know you're the king of pretty words but I've got things to say too!"

"Don't email me a list," Albedo says, disbelieving and amused. "And yes, I...it's so very strange to hear, but I think I needed that..."

"Yeah. Anytime you need something, just ask, okay? I'm gonna try to communicate better too, Xiao and Lumine's been telling me practically my whole life that the way I cope with things isn't great...and they're right."

"Is there a reason that this is the way you cope?" Albedo asks gently. "By avoiding the source of the problem until you think you'll be okay with it again?"

Aether bites his lip, before slowly shaking his head. "I don't think so...I just, I'm so sensitive that I can't just ignore my feelings but I also don't wanna trouble people so - I always wanna try to solve things myself instead of getting other people involved, because it's just my problem, right?"

"Not right," Albedo disagrees. "Anything like this will always be my problem as well. And anything that makes you upset will also be my problem from now on."

Aether's beautiful eyes are glassing over again. "Really?"

"Yes. Because I love you too, you must know that."

Aether beams, attacking Albedo with a few more kisses.

"Heh, I know. You kept saying 'in love' while you were talking before and I almost died every time."

"I think I really might have been in love with you even during the time that I told you I wasn't," Albedo thinks out loud, but he blinks when Aether slaps a hand over his mouth and yelps, "Stop! Just stop talking!"

"But you're the one who-"

"SHH!"

Albedo does not have the slightest idea what's going on but he doesn't mind the thought of not talking, so he relaxes against the sofa and asks, "Then...Aether?"

Aether looks at him suspiciously. "What?"

"May I sleep here?"

Aether blinks. "In this place?"

"I suppose so. But I meant in your arms, preferably."

Aether flushes bright red, then he lets out a long drawn-out sigh like he's given up and wraps Albedo up in his arms, squeezing him gently. "You're gonna kill me one of these days, Albedo."

That doesn't sound very good. But Albedo feels himself sinking into Aether's warmth, his sweet smell and aura that wraps him up in a presence so safe, and he doesn't manage to say anything more before he falls asleep with his face buried in Aether's shoulder.

Albedo does a lot of well-earned resting over the next few days. He hadn't wanted to at first, mostly because of Klee and because he didn't want to have to cancel his last classes of the term in case he didn't end up finishing the syllabus, but after Zhongli lets people know of what's been going on (namely Albedo overworking himself rather than him going insane over Aether) and with Albedo being practically the baby of the Chemistry teaching department, professors flock to cover his classes and send him get well soon messages.

Lisa comes over a lot more just to keep him company, and Jean accompanies her sometimes. Their time together is mostly just Albedo listening to Lisa talk which is comforting in itself, and Albedo finds that it's a lot easier being around a couple when you're in a couple yourself. However they seem to think Albedo is a friend of Diluc's and keep talking to him about the guy, and Albedo is not quite sure why.

Bennett and Razor offer to pick Klee up from school since their secondary school is right next to her primary, so all three of them hang out at Albedo's place until Klee has to go home which is quite lovely. It also means that Albedo gets to witness their long-overdue confession moment, which is just Bennett kissing Razor uncontrollably because he does something cute (because apparently Razor trying to bite a coin to see if it's chocolate is cute), and the two of them just stare at each other for a full minute before Razor pounces at Bennett and drowns him in kisses.

Xiao breaks into Albedo's apartment a lot (Albedo thinks Xiao and Kaeya are sharing that spare key, which has Albedo thinking that the two are beginning an unlikely friendship) to make him food, and Kaeya and Aether are both busy with end-of-term business but they still text Albedo a lot to whine about how much they miss him which always makes Albedo smile.

This means that all Albedo needs to care about is his PhD work and Christmas presents, and it's surprisingly relaxing. He takes a break from art commissions too, because he thinks he would like to just draw what he wants to for a little while. Things like Bennett, Razor, and Klee playing happily together, like the morning sun filtering through the curtains because Albedo is actually waking up at normal times now, like the light snow blanketing his well-known campus. Like his beautiful boyfriend-to-be who messages him something new every morning so Albedo can wake up to something wonderful.

This morning, it's something that has Albedo's entire brain shut down. He's groggy and the light from the phone screen hurts his eyes, but everything is made better when he sees a morning selfie sent from Aether, with them basked in sunlight while still in bed, a smile peeking out from where he's hiding some of his face in his pillow, shoulders bare and golden strands tumbling over them. His sleepy aureate eyes peering at Albedo are filled with sweet love and something bright that is so fundamentally Aether.

Albedo is the luckiest man alive.

- hehe gm <3
- wha
- DID YOU LEAVE ME ON SEEN???
- wow cant believe im that ugly....

NO nno -
I just -
I think I just spent the last ten minutes trying to remember how to spell the word gorgeous -
Thank you autocorrect. -

- ??!??(#*$&&@+**$£+( WHAHHAT??!?$

I am sorry, I just woke up so my braincells aren't quite up to par... -
And your photo destroyed ALL the ones I had left. -

- ahHHhahdaHAHDA
- every day i think to myself 'ohno theres no way albedo can find a new way to call me pretty' then u DO it
- saying my looks make you dumb???? sir where did u learn this from

Nowhere. Don't you remember me telling you that you make me stupid? -

- sttTTOOOPP YES OFC I REMEMBER
- but you cant jus SAY things like that you FLIRT

I am always bemused when you call me a flirt usually at times when I am not flirting. -

- lies. u r always flirting
- you r in a constant state of flirt

If you say so. -
Can we...call? Instead of messaging? I think that might be easier. -

- !!!! ofc we can!
- hol on a sec

In the next second, Albedo's phone screen lights up with the sign of an Instagram call from Aether, and he accepts it. His heart swells when Aether calls out a bright greeting, and Albedo would do anything to be with him right now. Wrapped up in his arms, legs tangled up under the bedsheets, his head on Aether's warm chest...

"We should move in together," Albedo concludes, making Aether let out an alarming spluttering noise on the other line.

"Wha- HUH?! WHERE DID THAT COME FROM!"

"I want the first thing I see when I wake up to be you."

"Albedo-"

"We're already married, right?"

"Fake-married," Aether corrects with a laugh. "And that's not an invitation for you to actually propose."

"I would..."

"I know you would and that's why I'm telling you not to!"

Albedo is too sleepy and he respects Aether's wishes, so he says no more on the matter. He hears Aether sigh, then say amusedly, "You know, I've never been in a relationship like this. One where I've said 'I love you' before we even start dating. Or one where the guy wants to move in with me before we even start dating."

"Please don't pre-break up with me because I'm clingy. I'll change."

Aether lets out a delightful laugh. "Man...I know you're joking but I don't want you to ever change."

Albedo smiles. "Then I won't."

"Albedo, wanna date me?"

Yes, yes, yes, yes- "How romantic."

"Hehe, only the best for my dear Dr Artist!"

"I would absolutely love to date you, Aether."

"SCORE!" Aether cheers, and Albedo chuckles quietly before he hears the door open and a familiar voice calls, "I'M HERE."

"Ah, Xiao is here. I must be getting-"

"Wha- I can't know where you live but Xiao can?!" Aether yelps, sounding greatly offended, and Albedo blinks.

"Ah...he hasn't told you? Yes, I decided to rescind my notion of not letting many people know where I live, mostly because Kaeya and Xiao have been insistent on my getting rest. And it's quite nice as my apartment has never been this lively. You can come over whenever you're free, Aether."

"I'll take you up on that offer, sir! I'll get the address from Xiao and surprise you whenever so beware!"

Albedo is already quite used to random people turning up at his place, but he decides not to enclose that as he says a fond, "Yes, I'll be looking forward to it."

They share their goodbyes soon, and not even moments after Albedo has got up does Xiao poke his head into the room holding a spatula and says, "Congrats, you two finally finished getting your shit together."

Albedo has no clue what he's talking about for a moment, but then it clicks. "Wow. Aether really does tell you everything."

Xiao nods, smiling smugly. But then he blinks when he sees all the new sketches pinned to the walls, eyes growing wide. "Holy shit. What's all this?"

"A-Ah. Aether's Christmas present," Albedo says a little shyly, rubbing the back of his neck. "It's easy to pin it up to get it into a rough chronological order."

"It's nice to see you drawing yourself, though."

"Would you believe me if I say if I've never done it before?" Albedo laughs. "It's quite a challenge, but it's...surprisingly making me appreciate my face a little."

Xiao rolls his eyes. "'Cause you're cute, idiot. Everyone knows that."

Apparently, but that's not what Albedo meant. He just remembers that when he was younger, people would call him stoic. Emotionless. He would overhear some foster parents talking about him, joking that his apathy scared them a little but maybe they weren't joking at all. But he thinks there is a brightness in his eyes now, one that isn't just because of the yearn to find the answers of the world. He catches himself smiling so much now to the point that his cheeks hurt by the end of the day, and Lisa and Kaeya are always squishing his face these days and telling him how nice he looks when he's happy.

Albedo has never once thought to draw himself before now, but he wishes he had. It seems like a rather lovely exercise in learning to value yourself.

"Alright, so I'm making you pancakes. Whipped cream and chocolate and strawberries. Celebration breakfast."

Albedo's mouth waters at the thought, but it's too much. "Xiao, you really don't need to-"

But Xiao is already gone, and Albedo sighs to himself. He has no clue how he's all of a sudden acquired a teen firefighter as a cook, but he can't complain.

Then his phone buzzes, and he checks it to see that Aether has posted an Instagram story. He presses on the notification without a moment to waste (it's a habit), but he jolts when a picture of him comes up. It was from the night they were in Albedo and Sucrose's hideout, at a time that Albedo was asleep. Aether has drawn silver cat ears and whiskers on the photo of him, using some kind of phone pen.

A blaring caption in the corner reads, 'I'M NOW DATING THE CUTEST HOTTIE EVER ALL OF YOU CAN SUCK IT!!!!'

Albedo stares with wide eyes for a moment, completely speechless. He also never knows how Aether is taking all of these pictures without him knowing, even if this one makes a little more sense since he was asleep.

He replies to it with a simple 'Care to explain?'

And Aether replies within seconds, just like usual.

- HEHHE im sorryyy i had to I WANTED TO RUB IT IN EVERYONES FACES

I don't quite know how announcing you're dating me would do that... -

- ur right!! i havent shown u off enough!! im gonna tell everyone in town! n ill DEF make a proper post soon
- JUS U WAIT!!!

Albedo smiles, shaking his head. There is nothing more that he wants right now than to be with Aether, and kiss the cheeky smile the boy probably has on right now.

I'll wait. -

Chapter Text

It seems like it'll be a white Christmas this year, as Albedo sleepily watches the snow fall outside his window.

Albedo used to spend Christmas alone, ever since he came to Mondstadt. It didn't bother him too much, as he liked to spend the day walking outside and people-watching a little since people were always very joyful and boisterous during these times, and he'd take to drawing some of the fabulous decorations that Mondstadt would have to offer. Sometimes he would have dinner with Klee and her mother, sometimes he wouldn't. But then Kaeya came over one Christmas day three years ago and they've spent every one together ever since.

But it seems as if his plans might change, since Albedo sees two texts on his phone in the late morning of December 24th after he just wakes up. One is Aether's usual good morning message and the other is from Zhongli, asking if Albedo would like to join Xiao and Aether and him for Christmas at Dawn Winery during the day if he has no plans.

Albedo stares at the text for a very long time, filled with a stark bout of confusion and surprise.

The thought of spending Christmas with them does sound lovely, with good friends like Xiao and Zhongli, and his newly appointed boyfriend (which still feels like an absolute dream). But he knows he'll have to decline Zhongli's offer, because there is no way he can ditch his best friend for the man who might have broken said best friend’s heart a little.

But then his phone buzzes again, and Albedo sees that it is a follow-up text from Zhongli.

- Oh, I forgot to mention, but I was wondering if you might be able to help me out with something.

What is it, sir? -

- Good morning, Albedo! And, yes, well...
- I was wondering if you could perhaps invite Kaeya as well, if he has no other plans, but without telling him that I will be there.

That makes Albedo wake up in an instant.

Pardon my language, sir, but what the fuck. -

- I have an explanation , I promise!
- I have things I need to say to him. Very important things, including an apology. This is why I beg of you to help me out.

...Dr Zhongli, I want to help, but I'm pretty sure Kaeya won't want to see you and I don't want to break his trust. -

- I see...
- You are a good friend, Albedo. Never mind, then. I hope you have a lovely Christmas nevertheless.

But if I happen to tell you that Kaeya and I were planning to already be at Dawn by 3pm...then I guess anything else that might occur would be a simple coincidence. -

- !!!!!!!!!
- ALBEDO! YOU ARE THE GREATEST FRIEND IN THE WORLD! YOU SHALL NOT REGRET THIS!

Haha, okay, okay. Have a nice day, sir. -

Albedo shakes his head fondly when Zhongli sends him practically a sonnet in reply wishing him a good day in return. But this is very risky. He's putting all his faith in Zhongli, faith that he hopes he knows isn't misplaced, that he will make things right. It's what Kaeya deserves.

Albedo goes on to freshen up for the day. He can't believe he went to sleep at a normal time last night and still managed to wake up as late as practically noon, but he guesses that is the charm of holidays.

Him and Kaeya don't exactly have concrete plans today, but Kaeya might always come over later so Albedo tidies up a little. He also makes breakfast and while he's eating, he replies to Aether's good morning message. Aether does not reply immediately. Albedo doesn't want to worry about that, but it gives him bad memories of when Aether was avoiding him...

Ah. this again, Albedo thinks with a sigh, resting a hand on his head. I hope I get over that soon. We are together now, aren't we?

So he sighs and sets his phone down, ready to put his plate away. But he blinks when his screen lights up with a new notification.

viatoraveller added to their story.

...huh?

Confused, Albedo clicks on the notif. And his eyes grow wide when it shows a slightly blurry photo of Aether wrapped up in a scarf and a jacket, eyes squeezed shut and nose and cheeks a rosy pink as heavy snow falls around him and obscures some of the photo.

stuck in a snowstorm!!! the caption reads. im freezing and i cant see anythinggg ><

Oh dear. This must be why Aether didn't reply to him. Albedo wishes he could find a way to locate and pick the boy up, but the photo is too blurry for that. But then Albedo spots something, and he zooms in on the space behind Aether. 

That's definitely Albedo's car.

Oh gods. Aether is here - or at least somewhere near here. Albedo almost falls out of his chair hurrying to get up and he grabs his keys and a scarf, shoves on some shoes, before he sprints out of his apartment. Aether is correct, the snowstorm is heavy, and Albedo is almost worried that he's about to be blown away. But he uses muscle memory to hurry over to where he's pretty sure the car park is, and when he looks ahead, he sees a gold that is as  resplendent as ever in this snowstorm. Albedo lets out a mammoth sigh of relief.

"AETHER!" Albedo calls, rushing over. The boy jolts, before turning around and staring at Albedo with wide eyes.

"A-Albedo-?!"

"Don't speak," Albedo orders, grabbing Aether's arm before he drags him back to his apartment, raising his hand to shield his eyes from the snow. Luckily they're inside in no time, and Albedo spirals into panic when he sees how Aether looks like he's about to faint any second.

"Let's get this off you," Albedo mutters, pulling Aether's scarf and coat off. He rushes to turn up the heating, grab a blanket and put on his kettle, then he takes Aether's (absolutely ice-cold) hand and drags him over to the sofa. Aether cuddles up to him the instant they sit down, shivering, and Albedo tucks the blanket tight around him.

"What were you thinking?" Albedo scolds, blowing gently on Aether's fingers as he rubs some life into them. "Did you not read the weather forecast? I know it said the snowstorm would only be short but that does not mean you should be outside during it! What were you even doing outside- Aether, this is not funny!"

"S-Sorry!" Aether laughs, voice hoarse but still full of life as he watches Albedo with gentle eyes. "You're just so cute. It's nice having you take care of me."

Albedo also quite likes taking care of Aether, but he is mad right now and he is not going to let Aether charm him into complacency. He is about to barrel even more questions at Aether to try and get the boy to tell him what they’re doing here, but then Aether brushes closer, and Albedo's breath is caught in his throat as bright aureate eyes drown him in gold.

"My lips are cold too," Aether whispers, a shy and mischievous smile on those very lips, and Albedo wants to glare at him. But his hands work before his brain does, resting on Aether's cold face so he can pull it close and kiss him. Aether makes a noise of surprise (why is he surprised when he asked for this?) but it melts into a happy hum of triumph as he winds his arms around Albedo. His lips definitely are cold, and so is the skin under Albedo's fingers, therefore Albedo finds himself kissing more than just Aether's lips which has Aether giggling brightly. "Albedo!"

"This is your fault so I want no complaints," Albedo huffs, giving Aether one last kiss on his nose. Then Albedo decides to give up being angry because it's quite exhausting and Aether's smile is too beautiful to keep him mad, so he just sighs and knocks his forehead against Aether's. "Are you alright?"

"Yeah! Promise. Just a little cold," Aether assures him, cheeks rosy. "And I can't believe I ended up near your apartment! Best coincidence ever, though you terrified me when you came out of nowhere."

"Sorry about that. I was just concerned," Albedo apologises, and Aether shakes his head as he burrows into Albedo's side.

"It's okay. You saved me!"

Albedo smiles fondly. "Alright. I think you should get some rest to stop any sort of oncoming fever, so you can rest in my bed. I shall come soon with some tea."

"Woah, first ever visit to Albedo's place and I get to be in his bed? Lucky me," Aether teases with a wiggle of his eyebrows, and Albedo rolls his eyes.

"Cannot believe I was ever worried."

"Nooooo, still worry about me! I'm still cold! Cough cough - you hear that! I'm getting sick!"

After Albedo shoves Aether into his room, he goes about making the tea, and soon enough he's able to go over and give it to Aether. The boy greets him with a sweet smile, blankets messily strewn over him as he sits up and makes grabby hands for the tea. "Ooh, hot!"

"I can't believe you're in my bed," Albedo says without thinking, before flushing red when Aether shoots him a wide-eyed look. "I-I mean, I can't believe you're here in general."

"Well, you live super nearby," Aether points out as he leans into Albedo's side the instant Albedo sits down next to him. "I was just taking a bit of a walk. I didn't really see the weather forecast and the snow wasn't that bad when I left the dorms. I just...well...I've never spent Christmas Eve alone before and I didn't know what to do? Zhongli and Xiao are together at home, and Lumine and I called for a while but her and Ayaka had a date planned - which is a CRAZY way for me to find out that they're dating, by the way!"

"She didn't tell you straight away?" Albedo asks in surprise, and Aether snorts, "Oh yeah, we've been spending the last few months whining at each other about our forlorn love lives every chance we can get. But I think they only started dating today. Ayaka is just a damn goat who paired a date offer with a confession."

"I see...oh. So you have been 'whining' to Lumine about me?"

"I've been whining to everyone about you," Aether groans. "Literally anyone who'd listen! There's this sweet guy who's the biggest flirt EVER and I didn't think he liked me? Torture!"

"I think if you actually referred to me by name then it would have given you a lot more clarity. Many people have easily been able to discern that you are special to me."

"Ha, maybe, but I told Diluc that it was you and he was really surprised," Aether laughs, and Albedo doesn't know how to feel about Diluc of all people having been a forerunner in knowing about this. It's quite random. "But he told me you were a good guy and that the worst outcome would just be you letting me down gently. So that was nice." 

"Oh? That…really is nice of him? I must pay back the favour."

"Nah, he just likes you. A lot of people really like you. I get so many offers for double dates and stuff like that since I said we're dating 'cause tons of people wanna know you better," Aether murmurs, sounding quite pensive as he rests his head on Albedo's shoulder. So Albedo rests a hand atop Aether's free one.

"I hope you haven't said yes. We haven't even gone on any dates yet and I don't want to spend any of them with people other than you. We can save that for socials and parties."

Aether blinks at Albedo in surprise, eyes sparkling. Then he bites down on a smile and hides his face in Albedo's shoulder. "Y-Yeah. I'll just tell them you're all mine! No-one else can have you!"

"All yours," Albedo agrees because he loves how that sounds, and he feels Aether's hand under his clench into a fist when he says that. Albedo wonders why, until Aether murmurs, "I'm...all yours, too..."

Albedo blinks, heartbeat picking up. "W-What?"

"Don't make me say it again! I've never said something like that out loud before!" Aether groans, his face feeling peculiarly hot from where it's buried into Albedo's shoulder, and Albedo can't help but laugh fondly. He wraps an arm around Aether and pulls him closer, saying softly, "But did you mean it?"

"Wha- of course I meant it," Aether insists, raising his head to give Albedo an incredulous stare. Albedo nods, face slightly downcast.

"Right. I just...am always thinking about how many people you know, and how you are so delightful that you can befriend or date anyone in the world. And yet, you chose me."

Albedo hides his face behind an arm, voice shaky as he says hoarsely, "I-I'm so happy and I have no idea how to handle it."

His arm is pulled away, and Aether's beautiful eyes are endeared yet sad as he says, "Albedo-"

"No, no, please- let me speak," Albedo insists, taking hold of Aether's hands. "There were so many times during these months that we have known each other where you would make me so overwhelmingly happy that it terrified me. I would have to cut our meetings short or not reply to one of your messages straight away because I was afraid that the happiness would go away if I kept indulging myself, or that I simply didn't deserve it because you were being so unconditionally wonderful to me while there I was hoping for more. I am so completely unused to the happiness you give me and...I'm afraid of it. I'm afraid because I can't treat it like an experiment where I can take tests to discover answers. I cannot hypothesise whether this happiness will stay, whether you'll stay..."

"Albedo," Aether asks quietly. "Did your foster parent pass away?"

Albedo's eyes grow wide, head snapping up so he can stare at Aether who turns bright red, stumbling over his words before he yelps, "I-I'm so sorry, that came out so blunt! I- shit, Albedo, you do not need to answer that, it's just- something I've been wondering for a while but-"

"I do not know if she's...dead," Albedo mutters, holding onto Aether's hands tight. "But she did leave me, the summer that I was due to move to Mondstadt for university. It was like she vanished off the earth, no trace of her anywhere other than a letter she left me that told me to find Alice once I got to Mondstadt. I was heartbroken. I was unable to move from my bed for weeks."

"Albedo," Aether murmurs sadly, shuffling closer to pull Albedo into a hug. Albedo closes his eyes and takes all the comfort he can from Aether's warm presence. "I'm so sorry. You don't need to talk about this."

"It's alright. I- I like to think that she is out there somewhere continuing her experiments and studies, but I am not a part of her life anymore which is why I tend to refer to her in the past tense without thinking. I think it was inevitable. I think she truly did try not to really treat me like a son but rather an assistant, someone to help her when needed, but there were times where she would slip up. Times where she would look at me fondly, or say something kind. That is why it hurt so much."

"Oh man...do...do you know why she left?"

"I think she found something bigger than herself. A week before she left, we had stumbled across something while on a trip yet the instant we uncovered it, she hid it and would not let me see what it was. I think she had to leave to discover more about it, and I do not blame her. She is a scientist, after all."

"But it hurt you," Aether says sadly, and Albedo shakes his head, smiling.

"Don't worry, Aether. I was used to change. I was constantly uprooted from foster home to foster home, since I think people just didn't know what to do with me. I was often called a cute child, but my personality was not favourable. That's why I thought I finally found a home, but it...it simply wasn't meant to be. I got over it, but I've never said any of this out loud before. Forgive me if I am emotional."

"Wha- are you joking? I'd find it weird if you weren't emotional!" Aether argues, squeezing Albedo tight. "I'm glad you're over it, but that doesn't mean you can't be sad!"

"I...guess you're correct," Albedo says softly. Tears prick at his eyes, and he lets them. "She would always give me assignments, educational ones that would hone my skills. In the letter, she said her final assignment for me was to show her the truth and the meaning of this world. And...well, when parents say stuff like that...they usually mean happiness, right?"

"That's what mine would say," Aether agrees, pulling back to beam at Albedo. "I hope that's what she meant because that's super sweet. Shows she really does love you, Albedo!"

"I told her I loved her once and she left home for two days. I thought I had made her angry so I apologised once she returned but it turns out she had gone to China to get me an authentic glass lantern. We said no more on the matter."

"Wha- that's adorable?! Kind of?" 

"It seems so," Albedo chuckles, resting his forehead against Aether's. "I think her leaving has made me think that anyone trying to get close to me will leave too, but...I am happy. I am pursuing science at a renowned university with an even more renowned mentor turned friend, I have a wonderful class, I have a perfect yet infuriating best friend, I have a wonderful little sister, I have...I am not quite sure how to describe Xiao but I have him too."

Aether laughs and Albedo smiles fondly. He leans in to peck Aether's lips, murmuring, "And I have you, if you will have me."

"I think it's a little late for 'if's," Aether tells him with a raised eyebrow, but his smile is so sweet as he tugs Albedo into a longer kiss. It's so distracting that Albedo is completely disarmed when Aether falls back and bundles them under the covers, laughing against Albedo's lips while Albedo rests his arms either side of Aether's head, blinking in surprise. Yet it is quite a sight seeing Aether underneath him, cheeks flushed and eyes bright. Albedo feels himself yearning for something that he doesn't even know how to describe.

"You're looking at me like you wanna eat me," Aether teases, fingers threading through Albedo's hair, and Albedo lets out a shaky breath.

"There...I don't think I want to eat you but, there are definitely things I wish to do to you..."

Aether's eyes widen, face turning even pinker. "Really? What kind of things?" 

"W-Well, I-" Albedo's voice breaks when Aether leans up to nose his neck, soft lips leaving electricity in their wake at every inch of Albedo's skin that they touch. Albedo feels every single thought in his mind disappear, except for one. "I want to kiss your stomach."

Aether freezes, before he pulls away and asks in disbelief, "You what?"

"I cannot be blamed when you and your cropped clothing means it's on show all the time. It is very distracting," Albedo tries to explain, aware that he is probably not making any sense but it's the truth. The expanse of the warm toned yet soft-looking skin has been tormenting Albedo since he first ever set eyes on Aether.

"Gods, you're the cutest person in the world," Aether whines, looking both put-out and amused. "You can do that literally whenever you want, Albedo!"

"R-Really?"

"Yes!"

"What if I tackle you in public so I can do it?"

Aether giggles. "No offence, Albedo, but I don't think you could tackle me."

That's probably true. Albedo still feels displeased about it, though, but it is made one hundred percent better when Aether kisses him again. A short but perfect moment passes where all they do is exchange sweet kisses and Aether pulls Albedo down to cuddle him close - but then Aether suddenly gasps, "THE TEA!"

At least Albedo can take the opportunity to gather his wits while Aether hastily downs the probably lukewarm tea in less than a minute.

"I made that tea to warm you up and it probably wasn't warm anymore," Albedo sighs, holding his arms out for Aether who scoots right back into them when he's done. "I hope you're not still cold."

"The tiniest of tiniest bits...but it's okay! I've got my boyfriend to cuddle me!"

Boyfriend. Albedo is this beautiful golden flower's boyfriend. He feels his heart combust at the word, filling his chest with unfathomable warmth.

"Yes, you do. Though I don't run very warm." Albedo kisses the top of Aether's head as the boy burrows into his chest. Like some adorable small animal. "Oh, and - happy Christmas Eve. It's a shame I didn't follow in Lumine's girlfriend's footsteps and ask you on a date for today, but it must be fate that you still ended up here."

"Aw. But you're probably right. I wanted to ask if you wanted to spend today with me, but I thought you might already have plans," Aether murmurs, sounding shy. "And even though it was under sucky circumstances, I still get to be with you which is the best thing ever."

Albedo agrees wholeheartedly. He closes his eyes and holds Aether close, and it isn't long until both their breaths slow and they fall asleep in each other's arms.

The room is bright when Albedo wakes up. Albedo winces, wondering why on earth he hadn't closed his curtains before falling asleep, but then his groggy eyes widen when he sees a golden entity nose-to-nose with him. Albedo gets so surprised that he almost falls off the bed - but he's glad he manages to steel himself because he would never forgive himself if Aether woke up. Not when he looks so effortlessly gorgeous.

"Incredible," Albedo murmurs in pure revered disbelief, gently tracing Aether's jaw with his finger. Strands of his sunlight hair has escaped his braid, adorning the boy's face, as real sunlight filters through the window and casts rays that light up Aether's pale skin, highlighting his tiny freckles. Albedo wants to kiss each one of them.

Albedo cannot believe this divine being is his.

He has to immortalise the moment. He carefully shuffles away, and reaches for his sketchbook on his nightstand and rummages in the drawers for a pencil. It's finally a blessing that he always has those everywhere.

His sketches always mindlessly end up becoming Aether if Albedo isn't focusing a lot, but it's lovely to draw him consciously, taking in the soft curve of his cheek and the curl of flyaway hair over his sweet nose. This must be the first time Albedo has ever drawn Aether from a real life reference, which is remarkable considering just how many times Albedo has drawn him.

He's lost in his own world, very carefully thinking about the placement of Aether's freckles, when a sleepy teasing voice suddenly lilts, "Are you drawing me like one of your French girls?"

Albedo whips his head up in surprise to see Aether peeking at him with a soft smile, eyes opening to only slits yet already showing such warm mirth in their effervescent gold. Albedo is so smitten.

"I-I don't have any French girls," Albedo says breathlessly, and confusedly, and Aether snickers.

"Just stop drawing me and get over here, I want kisses!"

Albedo doesn't need to be told twice, setting down his sketchbook before he practically dives into Aether's open arms, and Aether laughs against him as Albedo kisses him like he would die if he didn't.

"Gods, you're a quick learner," Aether says almost under his breath, looking dazed, and Albedo kisses his cheek.

"Merry Christmas, my love."

"Woahhh, it's Christmas?"

"It is."

"That's crazy..."

"You are very sweet when you've just woken up," Albedo chuckles, nosing Aether’s jaw. But then suddenly Aether freezes, and slowly turns his head to stare at Albedo with wide eyes.

"Wait, it's Christmas?"

Albedo smiles. "Yes, Aether, I already said-"

But then Albedo seizes up too as his eyes grow just as wide as Aether's, before they both grab each other's shoulders.

"I'm supposed to be at Zhongli's!"

"I'm supposed to be at Kaeya's!"

Aether practically falls off the bed fumbling for his phone to check the time, and screams, "MY PHONE’S DEAD!"

"It’s already ten am," Albedo sighs as he checks his phone too. It's surprising that Kaeya hasn't broken into his apartment yet to make sure Albedo's alive, but Kaeya is pretty lenient on timing since Albedo tends to be late to a lot of things. "Alright. I'll make some quick breakfast, there's a spare toothbrush behind the bathroom mirror, do whatever you-"

But Aether has already sped off and Albedo winces when he hears the bathroom door slam closed. So much for a calm morning with the love of his life.

Aether yells something unintelligible at Albedo less than half an hour later when they're almost ready to go, taking the piece of toast out of his mouth before he throws his arms around Albedo and kisses him so fiercely that Albedo feels like he's being attacked. He laughs dizzily, holding Aether close as he says, "I love you too. Now go."

"I'll see you next week! Love your apartment, by the way! Very minimalistic! Chic!" Aether calls, muffled again while he shoves the toast back into his mouth and runs out of the apartment waving. Albedo thinks to himself that they'll be seeing each other much sooner than next week, but he has bigger issues to worry about, and it's not long before he's running out behind Aether and taking an opposite path to Kaeya's apartment.

"Chihuahua! How nice of you to show up!" Kaeya sarcastically greets him with a plastic smile when Albedo knocks wildly on his door, but he blinks when Albedo falls right into him, wheezing, "Can't...breathe..."

"Did you run here? What the heck, don't you have a car?"

"I ran here...'cause I love you, you...motherfucker. Also my car’s snowed in,” Albedo complains breathlessly, swatting at Kaeya who bursts out laughing.

"Fine, fine, I really can't stay mad at you after that. Merry Christmas, Albestie!"

Albedo returns the pleasantry as Kaeya sweeps him into a big hug and drags him to the living room. "I expected you to be late so don't worry."

Offensive, but understandable. Though Albedo's eyes widen when Kaeya elaborates, "Especially since I broke into your place at seven last night with cake and beer just to see you and Aether knocked out in bed together. First off, are you two grandpas? Who falls asleep at seven?!"

"He was caught in a snowstorm, of course he was tired!"

"...okay, but where's your excuse?"

"Kaeya, you are very aware of my sleep schedule."

"Sadly," Kaeya scoffs, flicking Albedo's head. "Second, you and Aether were in bed together and all you were doing was sleeping? I can't believe this is how I've raised you."

"You did not raise me. I was raised by science," Albedo affirms, making Kaeya snort. "And we have been dating for not even two weeks. What on earth were you expecting us to be doing?"

"Well, I don't know, but I was certain you wouldn't be able to keep your hands off the fella once you started dating."

"You're not wrong," Albedo admits, and Kaeya gasps until Albedo continues, "But in the literal sense. We have just been cuddling a lot."

"Ugh, my best friend is vanilla. Cannot even fathom that this is the life I'm living," Kaeya groans, dramatically (but quite elegantly) pretending to faint back onto his sofa. Albedo rolls his eyes, until Kaeya cheers, "Well, who cares, let's make some grub then go see my dear brother!"

It really is a wonder that Diluc still works on Christmas Day. Albedo wondered why last year, and Kaeya had told him that it's because Diluc is a miserable ugly loner which might be a bit of a biased viewpoint. But, Jean and Lisa both have their strange crushes on the guy and Diluc and Aether seem to be curiously close, to the point that it implies that they knew each other before Aether came to university here.

Which leads to another theory that Albedo has been thinking about for a while.

"I must ask you something," Albedo says, and Kaeya raises his head from his fetal position.

"What?"

"You lied to me, didn't you? About not knowing Aether before he came here for university."

Kaeya's eyes grow wide, before he instantly sits back and asks a loud, exaggerated, "WHAAAT?!"

"Gods, you're not even trying to hide it," Albedo sighs, and Kaeya grins at him.

"Guilty. Well come on, tell me how you found out!"

"If there are two people that everyone knows in this city, it's you and Diluc. Diluc since he owns the greatest source of economy in this place and you because, well, you're always at the winery and because you're so sociable and present. If Aether has been coming here for quite a few years now which I found out he has been, there is no way someone especially of his age wouldn't know who you are. You would have got your claws in him immediately."

"My claws?!" Kaeya laughs in surprise, looking highly amused, and Albedo nods.

"That's what you did to me almost the instant I stepped foot in this city. So why did you tell me otherwise?"

"Chihuahua, you are too smart for your own good. There wasn't any big reason, I just knew that you didn't know him because you're always so stuck in your own bubble, so I didn't wanna intimidate you by saying I already knew the guy that you were somehow so infatuated with that you would draw and post him online. I also wanted you to get to know him yourself instead of asking me about him, because I was seriously happy that you liked Aether so much. I was happy you were actively wanting another friend."

Everything Kaeya just said is so incredibly sweet that Albedo is completely speechless, only able to stare at Kaeya who is just casually sitting there as if he didn't say something so thoughtful. But then the guy sniffs, "And okay, maybe I got a bit jealous that you were so all over him, but I was used to being your closest friend! I didn't want someone to steal you away!"

Albedo blinks. "What, really? Is that why you...our fight...?"

"Part of it. I mean, Zhongli and Aether are crazy cool and special people, and you talk so fondly about Xiao too. I'm pretty neat too but I still didn't want you to...leave me behind for them," Kaeya mumbles, crossing his arms. Albedo frowns at the man.

"Sometimes I want to punch you, Kaeya. Actually, many times."

Kaeya stares at Albedo incredulously. "What the fuck-"

"How is a person as confident as you so unconfident when it comes to me? I am not worthy to be your exception, so don't let me be. No-one else will ever mean to me what you do-"

"No, don't sweet-talk me, I don't wanna hear it!" Kaeya groans, covering his ears with his hands. "Anyway, it's CHRISTMAS, I don't wanna talk about this shit. Let's make some food already!"

"After I do this," Albedo says, before he practically crashes into Kaeya who yelps when they both topple off the sofa.

"ALBEDO! YOU LITTLE SHIT!"

"A little shit who loves you," Albedo says matter-of-factly, hugging Kaeya tight, and it's very worth Kaeya flicking his head.

Venti and Diluc seem to be having a swell time together when Kaeya and Albedo reach the winery. As far as Albedo can tell, Venti and Diluc must spend every Christmas together as they both seem rather perpetually lonely and it makes a lot of sense for Diluc to spend holidays working and Venti to spend holidays drinking.

"What would you do if a duck came into your home and started using your cutlery?" Venti is asking Diluc who stares at him incredulously.

"Please don't tell me you are speaking from experience."

"But what would you do, pretty boy! Tell me!"

Hilariously, Diluc actually seems to take a second to think, but both him and Venti look up when Kaeya calls out a bright, "Here to grace your presence in the spirit of Christmas, dear brother!"

"I'd rather be graced by your lack of presence," Diluc sighs, though he makes the time to give Albedo an amicable nod. Albedo smiles back while Venti waves wildly.

"Heyyy, I know you guys!"

It's rather surreal to see Venti so up-close after hearing Xiao talk about him so much, and Albedo is struck by the need to assess the guy to see if he really is good enough for his new friend. But then Venti hiccups so loudly that he almost falls off his chair and bursts into giggles when Diluc has to reach out to catch him by the arm, and Albedo doesn't think he'd even know how to go about assessing this man.

"See, I knew you'd be here but it's still sad as hell," Kaeya jibes at Diluc as he takes a seat, and Albedo rolls his eyes at the fact that Kaeya is already picking a fight. "You've really got no-one to spend Christmas with? I thought Jean asked you out!"

"Oh, of course you were behind that," Diluc grumbles, though he still pours Kaeya a glass of wine as if it's muscle memory. "I thought it was strange, why someone with a girlfriend would ask me to date them, but I guess it was one of your pranks. Very funny that you would exploit my crush on her which is long gone by the way, and I only feel sorry for Jean that you managed to rope her into such a gag."

Kaeya's jaw drops. "Wha- what the FUCK are you on about, that was for real! Jean wants to date you."

Diluc blinks. "But she's dating Lisa."

Kaeya blinks back. "So? Lisa’s cool with it. She wants in, too."

Diluc burns up, turning stock still bar his mouth opening and closing like a goldfish while Kaeya calls him every synonym of 'idiot' in the English and Tamil language and yells, "You've got TWO smoking hot women on your tail and you've still got the fucking audacity to be working on Christmas?! This is literally why I hate you."

"Oi, that - this isn't my fault!"

"I'm gonna tell them you have warts so they don't try again."

"WHAT THE- DON'T DO THAT?!"

"Hello, Venti," Albedo says rather loudly as a means to block out the bickering duo, and Venti grins at him.

"Heyo!"

Albedo takes a seat beside him, feeling rather awkward as Venti blows bubbles into his drink. Then Venti blinks pensively narrowed eyes at him, and opens his mouth to ask, “Aether’s boyfie?”

Albedo nods and Venti smiles almost slyly, tapping his fingers against his cheek. “Hmmm…you definitely seem-“

But before Venti can finish his sentence, the door is thrown open. All of them turn around in surprise as Diluc glares, scolding, "Excuse me, but please don't slam my do- oh, Dr Zhongli?"

Kaeya seizes up, and Albedo stares with wide eyes at Zhongli who is dressed up in a rather fetching brown winter coat and a determined expression that makes it clear he is a man on a mission. Albedo has to try not to laugh when Xiao and Aether peek out from behind his shoulders, with Aether waving sweetly while Xiao burns bright red and ducks behind Zhongli the instant he notices Venti is there.

"Woahhh, Zhongli at a bar?! You drink stuff other than tea, old man?" Venti jeers, raising his glass, though it's a little pitiful when no-one acknowledges him. Albedo pats the guy's back when he droops.

Zhongli's expression softens when his gaze lands on Kaeya who looks so lost, eye wide as he stares back at Zhongli. But then he bites his lip and turns back to the counter, muttering, "Maybe we should go somewhere else."

"Did they fight or something?" Diluc whispers confusedly to Albedo who whispers back, "Just hold on," and it feels like they're watching a movie when Zhongli starts walking over to Kaeya. Albedo considers asking Diluc for snacks.

"Kaeya-"

"Oh, so you're talking to me now?" Kaeya spits out, bitter from the get-go, and Zhongli winces.

"...yes. I have a lot of things to tell you. The foremost being that I am a fool-"

"Sit down, idiot," Kaeya snaps, turning around again to grab Zhongli down by the collar and push him into the seat next to him. "Look, if you've got a whole speech planned just to say sorry, I don't need it. I know your type, pretty people with pretty words that mess with your head - I mean, Albedo's just like that too."

"He's right," Aether shrugs as him and Xiao have come in by now. Albedo frowns, but Aether smooches him before he can argue.

"I don't want you to tell me a whole eloquent monologue just to end on you saying you don't like me, alright? I'm not gonna put myself through that," Kaeya scoffs, raising his glass to his lips. "I know you're sorry, so let's just leave it at that, doctor."

"Alright," Zhongli says sadly, looking like a kicked puppy as he folds his hands over each other in his lap. But then Xiao elbows him fiercely and the two share a very heated telepathic conversation before Zhongli just blurts (yes, Zhongli, blurting) out, "W-What if part of that monologue is that I think you are so beautiful that it terrifies me, and I am here to ask you to be mine?"

Kaeya spits out his wine onto Diluc, and Albedo is practically fizzing with happiness as Venti scream-gasps from behind him. Zhongli takes Kaeya's hand and tells him rapidly, as if he's afraid that Kaeya will tell him to shut up before he gets everything out, "I have lost love before and it was such a terrible experience, I was scared to love ever again and thought I never would but then you came along, someone so wonderful and so clearly interested in me and it is no secret that you fascinate me but that has always scared me but, I am ready to face my fears, because you deserve that and perhaps I also deserve to love again if I am allowed the chance and if you do not yet hate me but if you do then I completely understa-"

"Zhongli," Kaeya interrupts with a laugh, setting down his glass so he can take hold of Zhongli's other hand and Zhongli immediately falls quiet, staring at Kaeya with fearful eyes. Kaeya gives him a soft, amused smile. "This is a bit much to be telling a guy who's just been casually flirting with you for a few years, right? Let me take you on a date first before we get to sharing trauma and talking about the word ‘love’."

"I-I just wished to explain a little," Zhongli mutters, deflating as he looks down. But then he seems to register the rest of Kaeya's words and he whips his head up, topaz eyes sparkling and wide. "O-Oh. You...ah?"

"Ah," Kaeya agrees, and he laughs when Zhongli brings up his hands (which Kaeya is still holding) to hide his face reddened by overwhelming happiness. Albedo and Aether beam at each other while Xiao firmly covers his own eyes, but all of them jolt when Venti groans loudly to ruin the joyful moment.

"I come here to get AWAY from all this lovey-dovey stuff!" Venti whines, his drink sloshing about as he waves it fiercely in the air and Diluc is pointlessly trying to ask him to stop. "Mannn, I'm gonna go find someone to make out with. Diluc, you free?"

"I would rather kiss this," Diluc deadpans, pointing at Kaeya who retches. Venti shrugs.

"Aight, fairs. Who else-"

Albedo almost falls off his chair when something rushes past him at the speed of light and suddenly Xiao is in front of him, hand over his heart as he yells, "I VOLUNTEER."

Xiao gets very confident at the strangest of moments, Albedo thinks.

Venti's eyes twinkle as he sits up in his seat, and Xiao turns bright red as if what he's done has only just dawned on him. Then Venti purrs, "Hmm, and why should I choose you?"

"I...I am very loyal. If you choose me, I'll stand by you for life," Xiao says firmly, which makes Albedo think of a dog rather than a potential make-out partner. Aether starts saying an amused but wary, "Uh, Xiao-" but Venti brushes him off, leaning closer to Xiao.

"No, no, traveller, let him continue. What else, puppy?"

Xiao mouths 'puppy' silently, looking like he can't believe this is happening, before he shakes his head and composes himself. "I am ready to be a very avid campaigner for your music. I already force everyone I talk to to listen to it."

"Eh, reeeeally?" Venti asks in surprise, eyes gleaming as he loops his arms around Xiao's shoulders, and he grins when Xiao nods dutifully. "That's a first. What else?"

"I will protect you with everything I have."

"My gods, he's adorable," Venti coos, leaning so close that his and Xiao's lips seem only a hair breadth apart, and Xiao looks dazed. Venti almost closes the distance before Xiao blurts out, "I-I'm also a firefighter!"

Venti's eyes grow wide. "Wha- why the hell wasn't that the first thing you said?! Fuck yeah, we're making out right now."

"I TOLD YOU EVERYONE HAS THE HOTS FOR FIREFIGHTERS!" Kaeya calls out after them as Venti drags away a dizzy Xiao. Meanwhile Zhongli looks like aliens just walked into the winery.

"Xiao...likes Venti...?"

Kaeya pats Zhongli's back while Zhongli stares into space existentially, and Diluc gets the poor man a drink. Albedo is just glad that all the drama is over. He feels like he's been through a whole movie marathon in the last ten minutes.

"Nice to see you again," Albedo tells Aether who grins, saying a bright, "You too!" as he takes a seat in Albedo's lap which is incredible. Are these the types of things he's been missing out on with his perpetual lack of relationship experience? 

"Kaeya and Zhongli meeting felt pretty planned, though. Zhongli's been all nervous since I first saw him today," Aether whispers so the others won't hear. "Were you in on it?"

"Yes. I just let him know we would be here."

"Oooooooh, look at my boyfriend, matchmaker supreme!"

"I did a terrible job of matchmaking myself so I don't think that's an appropriate title," Albedo sighs, but he rides off the high he gets every time Aether calls him their boyfriend as he kisses Aether's jaw. "But I've got you now and I am never letting go."

"You really need to stop inadvertently proposing," Aether groans, cheeks pink, and Albedo smiles fondly when the boy quickly changes subject to, "And I think this means that we're all gonna be spending Christmas together today. Or at least, if Venti gives Xiao back at some point. Wasn't that so out of nowhere?!"

"Extremely so."

"Must be some lovebug going around right now," Aether concludes with a wink, and Albedo doesn't have to wait long for the oncoming kiss Aether gives him that has warmth blooming through his chest to his toes. Albedo melts, holding Aether close, and Aether laughs when Albedo mindlessly chases his lips again the instant they break apart. Aether’s got him addicted…

"Did you get me a Christmas present?" Aether whispers in his ear, and Albedo nods. He has it with him in his bag now, and making it has made him fall even more in love with Aether by each passing second.

It's a book that Albedo bound together, filled with a sketch from every defining moment of their times together. There's one of the first time they met, with Aether's eyes wide as he stares at Albedo in surprise, cheeks brushed pink. One of when they first met up in person, with Aether all dressed up as he smiles in the distance and stands out effortlessly among all the people around him in front of the winery. One of Aether looking beautifully badass on his motorcycle. One of Aether trying to creep out of the classroom. One of Aether smiling tearily at Albedo as he huddles under covers, both of them holding hands tight. One of Aether's hands over his mouth as he stares down at Albedo out of frame who's holding up that fake-engagement-ring-turned-promise-ring. And there's so many more, some that Albedo had already drawn, and some that Albedo could effortlessly pull out of his memory because every second with Aether is just so delightfully memorable.

But - and this was the hardest part - there's a break in the middle of the book of two pages, mostly blank if not spotted with a bit of silver paint. And after these unassuming pages are a whole plethora of sketches of Albedo. Sketches to match every single one of those of Aether, drawn to tell the story of how Albedo fell for Aether through the way he looks at him. From Albedo looking starstruck by Aether the moment they met and Albedo staring at Aether in wonder through the motorcycle helmet as he holds onto the boy's waist for his dear life, to Albedo shaking his head fondly with a hand over his face as Aether tells him why he ended up in his class, to Albedo smiling so smittenly up at Aether as he crouches on one knee and holds up the little black box, and all the more.

Then the very last page is a sketch of Albedo in his room, making his first ever Disney-prince-esque painting of Aether wrapped up in buttercups and sunflowers like a man possessed. Underneath it, Albedo has signed off the book with a simple 'for my golden flower'.

If Aether ever needs reminding of what Albedo feels for him, all he needs to do is look in this book and see concrete proof of the way Albedo looks at him. Because Albedo constantly wishes he could never look away, and at least this book gets to immortalise the times he  didn’t.

"I'll give it to you later," Albedo says as Aether blinks in surprise at the fact that Albedo really has got him a present. "But, there's actually something I want from you first."

"Hm? What is it?"

"Your phone number."

Aether giggles. "Damn, Albedo, that was smooth."

Albedo feels confused. "What? I'm really asking. I don't have it yet."

Aether pauses, taking a long minute to truly take in the absurdity of that statement before he squawks, "Wait, what?"

"I don't have it yet," Albedo repeats amusedly, watching Aether's mouth drop open. "Do you know we only communicate over phone on Instagram? There have been times I've thought it strange we don't have each other's numbers, but I always forget to ask."

"Oh my gods, we're so dumb," Aether whines, squeezing Albedo's shoulders. "Of course you can have my number, dummy! Man, I'm gonna miss our Instagram talks, though..."

"We can still communicate on Instagram. I just think it might be a bit of a good idea to have my boyfriend's number."

"Okay okay, if I give you my number then I want...you to post on your story that you're dating the dude you always draw," Aether says excitedly, looking very proud of himself at the idea, before quickly reiterating, "Only if you want to!"

"Why do you want me to do that?" Albedo asks curiously, and Aether shrugs.

"I'm sure they'll love it! Think about how cute the fact that you just wanted to draw me once and now we're dating is? Even talk shows would eat that up!"

Albedo was invited on a talk show once after a famous singer commissioned him to design her a tattoo and suddenly there was a phase where a lot of celebrities started flocking after his services. Albedo declined going on the show but he thinks Aether would excel at something like that - he would look gorgeous on television, interacting seamlessly with the host with his bright smiles and free speech, thriving off the energy of the audience. Aether truly is made for the limelight.

But I also want to keep him all to myself, Albedo thinks, staring besottedly as the boy keeps talking. He's always thought that everyone should be graced by Aether's presence since the moment he set eyes on them, but the thought that only Albedo gets to hold him like this now? It elates him more than words.

I love him, Albedo thinks helplessly, flopping his face into Aether's chest. I love him, I love him, I love them.

"Albedo?" Aether asks, carding gentle hands through Albedo's hair. "You okay?"

Albedo makes an unintelligible noise, and Aether laughs as he wraps his arms warmly around Albedo's head and holds him close. Albedo raises his head just a bit and Aether smiles down at him, aureate eyes sparkling before he closes them and presses the tip of his nose against Albedo's, then-

"Yeah, I'm calling Jean. I can't deal with you saps anymore," Diluc deadpans, throwing down his washcloth before marching out from behind the bar. Albedo and Aether blink at each other while Kaeya calls out, "DOES THIS MEAN I'M FREE TO RANSACK THE STOCK, DEAR BROTHER?"

"FUCK NO, I'M CLOSING UP SO GET YOUR ASS OUTTA HERE!"

"We can all go to my house," Zhongli offers, kissing Kaeya's hand. "Xiao and I have presents for you and Albedo."

"I have some too!"

"Yes, Aether too."

"This seems oddly orchestrated," Kaeya says, narrowing his eyes at Albedo who pointedly hides his face in Aether's shirt again because he cannot lie for the life of him. Kaeya shrugs. "Well, whatever. Let's go!"

So they leave the winery after Zhongli manages to go and drag Venti and Xiao apart to tell them a very emotional speech of 'why did neither of you tell me about this, I feel so utterly in the dark!'. Aether hugs Diluc goodbye before running back to take Albedo's hand, Venti smothers a dazed-looking Xiao's face with kisses before gliding away down the road with a peace sign, and then it's just the five of them.

"This has been the wackest autumn ever," Xiao breathes, and Albedo can only agree. Aether squeezes his hand and Zhongli smiles at him as the three of them fall back behind Xiao and Kaeya who have got into a bizarre conversation about how good Venti is at kissing. Then Zhongli seems to realise something.

"Neither of you told me you were dating, either. It was a vast surprise."

Albedo blinks, and looks at Aether. "You didn't tell him?"

Aether looks perplexed. "You're the one who's with him all the time."

"But that doesn't mean I-"

"Everyone forgets about me. My long-time friend, my own son, my protégé," Zhongli sniffs, looking close to tears again and Albedo panics as he flocks to pat the man's back and reassure him that he didn't mean to, him and Aether only started dating a few weeks ago anyway, but that doesn't seem to help their case as Zhongli cries, "A few WEEKS?!"

Albedo groans, dropping his face into his hands and Aether isn't helping with his barely muffled laughter. But then Zhongli takes one of their hands each and fixes them with a grave but sparkling stare, his topaz eyes soft.

"I am so completely happy for the two of you. You deserve nothing less."

"Thank you, sir," Albedo says shyly as him and Aether look at each other with bashful smiles. Suddenly he feels like a schoolboy with his sweetheart as his dad gives them his blessing, but Zhongli just has that effect. "Sh-Shouldn't we keep moving?"

Zhongli smiles triumphantly before he nods, and then they're all moving down the road with Xiao yelling fiercely at a cackling Kaeya about something and Zhongli hurries over to try and break it up, with Aether giggling at them.

Albedo thinks there is no other place he would rather be than with these beautiful people who cover every colour of the rainbow.